An operation by the Argentine Naval Prefecture at the border between Argentina and Bolivia ended this Friday morning with moments of tension, running, and confrontations in an area used for the clandestine crossing of goods. The incident occurred in the area connecting Aguas Blancas, in Salta, with Bermejo, on the Bolivian side.
According to preliminary information, the incidents began when Prefecture officers intercepted goods that were being illegally brought into Argentine territory.
After the seizure, a group of people present at the scene began to attack the agents, and the situation escalated into a confrontation.
The confrontation
During the disturbances, there were reports of running, and according to videos that began circulating during the morning, several gunshots were heard.
So far, there has been no official report on who fired the shots or under what circumstances the detonations occurred. There has also been no official communication regarding possible injuries resulting from the confrontation.
The operation took place in a border area characterized by intense movement of people and goods. Aguas Blancas and Bermejo are separated by the Bermejo River, and in addition to the authorized international crossing, there are areas used for illegal crossings.
The location of the incident
In this context, federal forces are conducting operations aimed at combating smuggling and other crimes related to the irregular movement of people and products in the northern border.
The Aguas Blancas area is also included in the Güemes Plan, an operation promoted by the Government of Javier Milei to reinforce controls at the northern border of Salta and primarily combat drug trafficking, smuggling, and human trafficking.
Background
The incident this Friday has a precedent of another confrontation that recently occurred in the same area. On August 27, incidents were reported at the so-called Paso Camba, in Aguas Blancas, following an operation related to the transportation of goods.
On that occasion, a group of people confronted Prefecture Naval officers after the seizure of various packages. During the disturbances, stones were thrown at official vehicles, and the agents used rubber bullets.
After that incident, the National Gendarmerie intervened with the aim of restoring order in the sector. Local authorities had also requested the temporary closure of the crossing.
