The Chaco Police immediately separated several aspirants after detecting drug use in entry course toxicological exams. Two serving officers face a dismissal request for consuming narcotics on airport grounds. These actions aim to strengthen internal controls within the force.
The Chaco Police tightened internal controls after a series of narcotests at the Police School detected positive results among aspirants in the 41st training course. Ricardo Urturi, director of the Institutional Control Body (OCI), confirmed that the implicated students were automatically separated, as they lack police status or legal ties to the provincial state.
Urturi explained in an interview on Radio Libertad: “Since the 2004 reform, no one enters directly as a police officer. They must first pass the course. If an aspirant tests positive, they are removed because they are not yet part of the institution.” The expelled aspirants are not under OCI supervision nor receive institutional support, as no employment relationship exists. Formal entry occurs only after passing the course and signing the appointment decree.
In contrast, two officers from the 11th Police Station, a first corporal and a corporal, face a disciplinary process for an incident on November 3, when they were reported for consuming narcotics inside the airport premises. The OCI concluded the investigation on November 26 and submitted a dismissal request to the Ministry. “As they are active police officers, the final resolution is made by the governor,” Urturi stated.
Following the positives, the Police School reinforced controls: nearly 490 cadets from the new course must undergo narcotests detecting marijuana, cocaine, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opiates, and methamphetamines. Tests are conducted in the presence of the cadet and supervisors, with immediate results. The measure ensures standards of suitability, discipline, and aptitude for service.