Chile moves hundreds of high-risk inmates to new Talca prison

Chile's government has begun relocating hundreds of high-risk inmates to the newly built La Laguna prison in Talca, in a major operation against organized crime. President José Antonio Kast called the move "historic" and said it marks a shift in the country's penitentiary policy Source: Infobae. The operation, dubbed "Cancerbero," has drawn both praise and criticism, with opponents accusing the government of a "Bukele-style performance" Source: Infobae.

The operation

The first phase on Thursday moved 687 inmates, including leaders of gangs like Tren de Aragua and the Albanian Mafia, from various prisons across Chile to La Laguna Source: Emol. The transfer was broadcast live on national television, with images from surveillance helicopters and a soundtrack that included NSYNC's "Bye Bye Bye" Source: Infobae. On Saturday, a further 250 inmates from the Maule region were transferred, according to Gendarmerie Source: Emol. Reports on the initial number vary: some outlets cite 687, while others mention 295 or 191, reflecting different stages or counts of the operation Source: El Nacional, Listin Diario.

The prison and its regime

La Laguna, inaugurated in 2025 under former President Gabriel Boric, has a capacity of 2,320 places and features advanced security systems, including signal blocking, cameras, and metal detectors Source: CNN. The government plans to impose a strict segregation regime, with high-risk inmates kept in separate modules, wearing uniforms, and receiving visits only through booths Source: Listin Diario. Security Minister Martín Arrau stated, "In prisons, the State commands, not criminals" Source: Milenio.

Context and criticism

Chile has about 65,000 prisoners, the highest in its history, with only 42,000 places, leading to overcrowding Source: Listin Diario. At least 600 gangs operate from prisons, according to a 2024 report Source: Infobae. The live broadcast and the government's approach have sparked debate, with opposition lawmakers accusing Kast of staging a "Bukele-style performance" Source: Infobae. The government defends the operation as necessary to regain control of prisons and combat organized crime Source: CNN.