Two former defense ministers have expressed their concern following the announcements by Defense Minister Luis Petri regarding the detention of civilians by the military, which conflicts with the Law of Internal Security. According to the aforementioned law, if the military must appear before the judiciary for any matter related to the exercise of their duties, they will have protection from the Ministry of Security, receive state-appointed lawyers and have complete legal coverage.
Minister Petri has defended this measure as necessary to combat drug traffickers, terrorists, and violent criminals at the northern border of the country. However, the detention of civilians by the military raises questions about the legality of such actions. According to current legislation, the military does not have jurisdiction in internal security unless there is a presidential decree and a legislative agreement granting them such powers.
The proposal to amend the Law of Internal Security did not achieve consensus in the Chamber of Deputies, so it is now being attempted through a Ministerial Resolution. This decision has generated criticism from both legal experts and the public opinion. Former Defense Minister Agustín Rossi has labeled this measure as illegal and has pointed out the danger of resorting to repression instead of addressing the social needs of the population.
The Free Chair "Knowledge, Beliefs, and Struggles of Indigenous Peoples" at the National University of Rosario has expressed its concern over the deployment of the Armed Forces in non-urban areas, where members of indigenous communities may transit and could be unjustly criminalized. The implementation of the so-called "Operation Roca" has been interpreted as an apology for indigenous genocide and as a step towards the militarization of border regions.
Amidst the lack of political and social consensus, Minister Petri's announcements regarding the military's role in the detention of civilians have raised doubts about the legality and appropriateness of this decision. Meanwhile, society debates the necessary balance between public safety and respect for citizens' rights.
