Prosecutors drop charges against two in Chilean Air Force 'Narcoaviadores' case
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Prosecutors will not proceed against two individuals implicated in the "Narcoaviadores" case involving the Chilean Air Force.
- The decision was announced during a closed-door hearing, with a definitive dismissal not yet sought for one of the accused.
- The case involves alleged drug trafficking activities linked to FACh personnel.
Chilean prosecutors have decided not to pursue charges against two individuals, a mechanic and a cabin chief, who were implicated in the "Narcoaviadores" case. This case centers on alleged drug trafficking activities involving personnel from the Chilean Air Force (FACh).
The Public Ministry communicated its decision during a closed-door hearing. While the prosecution will not proceed against these two individuals at this time, a definitive dismissal has not yet been requested for the mechanic. This means further legal steps may be required to fully resolve his involvement.
My definitive dismissal will be requested in another hearing. I only have my action of not persevering.
The mechanic, who spent eight months in detention, stated that his definitive dismissal will be sought in a separate hearing. He indicated that the decision to not persevere is distinct from a final acquittal. "My definitive dismissal will be requested in another hearing. I only have my action of not persevering," he told reporters, referencing the prosecution's current stance. He also alluded to evidence from police investigations that he believes supports his case, stating, "There are several PDI reports that say so. I will speak, but when the definitive dismissal is given."
The prosecution's decision to not persevere means they will not continue the investigation against these specific individuals based on the current evidence. However, it does not preclude future action if new evidence emerges. The defense team is expected to formally request the definitive closure of the case for the mechanic in a subsequent hearing.
There are several PDI reports that say so. I will speak, but when the definitive dismissal is given.
Originally published by Cooperativa in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.