Three people were shot and two people arrested in violent clashes in Santiago, Chile, during a May Day Labor Day protest.
An injured person taken care of by the emergency services on May 1, 2022 in Santiago.
AFP
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 foreigners 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.
Increase in the minimum wage
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 following two years of confinement” to “recognize the work of many comrades, such as the workers (in the sectors) of health, commerce and transport, which have been fundamental to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic, said union president David Acuña.
The minimum wage will increase from 350,000 pesos (410 francs) to 400,000 pesos from August. President Boric has announced that his goal is to reach 500,000 before the end of his term in 2026.
(AFP)
