Overview

• The government authorized military personnel to detain civilians committing crimes in flagrancy as part of 'Operativo Roca,' aimed at combating drug trafficking and smuggling at the northern border.
• The detention powers are outlined in classified 'rules of engagement' under Resolution 347, which also restricts the use of force to proportional and defensive actions.
• Critics, including former Defense Ministers Jaunarena and López Murphy, argue the measure conflicts with Argentina's security and defense laws, while opposition deputy Agustín Rossi labels it 'illegal.'
• Military sources express concerns over unclear chain-of-command responsibilities and potential legal liabilities for personnel involved in detentions.
• The operation, which began with 1,300 troops in Salta, plans to expand to 10,000 soldiers by year-end, despite logistical and resource constraints raised by military leadership.