Punta Peuco Prison Closure: A Pivotal Moment in Chile's Human Rights Journey

Chile's Punta Peuco Prison to Become Regular Penitentiary: President Boric's Announcement Sparks Debate SANTIAGO, CHILE – In a significant move, Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced the closure of Punta Peuco, a prison notorious for housing individuals convicted of human rights abuses during the Augusto Pinochet dictatorship. The prison, located in Til Til, will be transformed into a regular penitentiary, ending its status as a special facility. This decision requires modifying a decree issued in 1995. "The decision to close Punta Peuco is a crucial step towards fulfilling our commitment to justice and human rights," said President Boric in his recent public address. The move is expected to affect approximately 140 inmates, many of whom are elderly and have served lengthy sentences. The transition process will be overseen by Gendarmería de Chile, the national prison service. According to Justice Minister Marcela Ríos, "Gendarmería will carefully evaluate the situation of each inmate to ensure a smooth and safe transfer." The ministry is currently assessing the feasibility of increasing the capacity of other prisons to accommodate the inmates from Punta Peuco. The closure of Punta Peuco is a symbolically important event, marking a potential shift in how Chile addresses its past human rights violations. The process will undoubtedly present challenges, but the government's commitment to transparency and collaboration with Gendarmería suggests a measured approach to this sensitive issue.