Translated By Brian Schwarz
Originally published in Friday, March 5, 2010 in "Diario La Discusión" of Chillán, Chile (diarioladiscusion.cl) under the heading Con una hora menos prosiguió Toque de Queda en la intercomuna
CHILLAN, CHILE – Authorities and community leaders have evaluated the “state of calm” being enforced in the area of Chillán and Chillán Viejo and this morning should decide if the measure will continue to be employed.
Twenty-four people were detained during the first night the curfew was in place in the adjoined towns. The measure, which places restrictions on individual rights, had been implemented due to the mood of unrest experienced in the city following the earthquake.
Local authorities and leaders detailed the positive effects of the measure, which effectively brought an end to the practice of neighbors arming themselves to defend their villages and homes for fear of looting.
Commander Juan Jose Diaz of the 9th Infantry Regiment of Chillan said during the first night of vigilance of the exception measure there was absolute calm in the city.
