(Santiago de Chile) Three people were injured by bullets and two people arrested during violent clashes in Santiago, Chile, during a demonstration on 1er May for Labor Day.
Posted at 12:29 a.m.
During the march, organized by a trade union group in Santiago, incidents occurred: demonstrators set fire to barricades, some entered commercial premises and confronted traders.
“There were clashes between street traders who unfortunately used firearms and injured three people, including two women and a man,” said Enrique Monrás, national police chief.
Police have confirmed that two people have been arrested on suspicion of the shooting. An investigation has been opened by the public prosecutor.
“We are trivializing violence, we cannot allow criminal gangs to take control of the streets of our country,” said President Gabriel Boric.
At the same time, a traditional march, organized by the main trade union in the country and which brought together thousands of people, took place without incident.
“We are happy, it is a special and particular day after two years of confinement” to “recognize the work of many comrades, such as the workers [dans les secteurs] of health, commerce and transport, which have been fundamental” in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic, said David Acuña, president of the union.
The minimum wage will increase from 350,000 pesos ($512) to 400,000 pesos from August. President Boric has announced that his goal is to reach 500,000 before his term ends in 2026.