Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Copiapo (Agenzia Fides) - A group of experts of Caritas and the diocese, led by Mgr. Celestino Aós Braco, O.F.M. Cap., Bishop of Copiapó, reached the areas affected by landslides and flooding to verify the situation of the community and support them in these difficult times.
According to data collected by Fides, after heavy rains, flooding and landslides in the area, 12 are dead and a dozen are missing and the Interior Ministry also informs that there are at least 748 homeless and more than 5000 people who have had to leave their home for landslides.
According to the note sent to Fides by a local source, improvised city tents were set up in various camps in the town of El Salado or in safer areas, to welcome in particular children and the elderly.
Mgr. Aós, after the visit to different groups of homeless, denounced looting and price gouging by some traders. In this regard he said: "I cannot understand how there can be people, in the midst of these tragedies, that want to take advantage of the situation, this is a despicable behavior. As a society we have to be united and be honest, without depriving the most vulnerable of material goods, because in doing so we take away their hope, which is much worse".
It seems that the most affected areas are those of Antofagasta and Atacama, where in many towns in the area there is no drinking water and light. The Holy Father, through the Secretariat of State, expressed his closeness to these people. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 30/03/2015)
