President José Antonio Kast vowed that fugitive Galvarino Apablaza—accused of Jaime Guzmán's 1991 murder—will face Chilean justice, speaking at the airport before his first official trip to Argentina. Following Argentina's recent 20 million peso reward and a failed capture attempt, Kast announced cooperation with Javier Milei's government amid ongoing extradition efforts.
From Arturo Merino Benítez Airport ahead of his departure, Kast labeled Apablaza a "fugitive from justice" and affirmed: "each day it becomes clearer that in this case justice will arrive. Sooner or later, Mr. Apablaza will have to answer to Chilean justice".
His administration will pursue "all pertinent actions" with Argentina and international partners. Chancellor Francisco Pérez confirmed the trip is on track, highlighting strong Argentine cooperation, including the reward for Apablaza's capture.
Apablaza, ex-FPMR member, evaded a raid at his home last week—coinciding with Guzmán's murder anniversary—after losing refugee status. His lawyer, Rodolfo Yanzón, rejected any appearance, calling the detention order illegal and planning a UN complaint over refugee convention issues.
Communist Party leader Lautaro Carmona criticized government spokesperson Mara Sedini for misstating Apablaza's status as "convicted," terming it a potential legal embarrassment. Kast travels with UDI secretary general Juan Antonio Coloma and key ministers for talks on security and organized crime, including a private Monday meeting with Milei at Casa Rosada.
