Tensions flare at Argentina-Bolivia border over contraband clashes

A tense confrontation occurred at the Camba border crossing between Argentine Naval Prefecture officers and smugglers, known as 'bagalleros,' who were attempting to bring contraband goods into Argentina from Bermejo, Bolivia. The incident escalated when security forces allegedly fired rubber bullets at the smugglers, who retaliated by throwing stones.

Witnesses reported that the 'bagalleros,' comprising both Bolivian and Argentine nationals, were protesting the confiscation of their merchandise without proper seizure documentation. Following the initial clash, Argentine National Gendarmerie (GNA) forces arrived to manage the traffic flow from Las Chalanas in the city of Bermejo.

Adrián Zigarán, the interventor of the Municipality of Aguas Blancas, stated that two Naval Prefecture patrol cars were stoned by 'bagalleros' involved in illegal contraband activities. He criticized their actions, emphasizing that smuggling is a crime not permitted in Argentina, unlike what he perceived as a more permissive attitude on the Bolivian side, despite significant daily purchases from Argentina.

In response to the escalating tensions, Zigarán proposed a temporary closure of the Camba crossing for a period of five, ten, or fifteen days. He indicated that this decision rests with the Argentine government, which is expected to make a statement soon to prevent future occurrences. Despite the implementation of Argentina's Plan Güemes in 2024, contraband from Bolivia continues to flow through the border crossing between Aguas Blancas and Bermejo.