Mauricio Arriaza Chicas, the late general director of the National Civil Police (PNC) of El Salvador, is being celebrated for his incorruptible character and dedication to his role. Arriaza Chicas, who tragically died in an airplane accident last Sunday along with eight others, is being remembered by family, friends, and analysts for his significant contributions to the PNC and his unwavering professionalism.
Political scientist and analyst Oscar Peñate spoke highly of Arriaza Chicas, describing him as «incorruptible» during an interview. Peñate highlighted the director’s critical role in leading the National Civil Police’s efforts against gang violence through the implementation of the Territorial Control Plan (PCT) and the state of emergency.
According to Peñate, before Arriaza Chicas took office on June 1, 2019, the PNC had struggled with credibility issues, partly due to corruption within its ranks. Investigations by the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) revealed that some officers were involved with criminal gangs, undermining public trust and leaving civilians vulnerable. For instance, in October 2018, FGR issued an arrest warrant for police corporal Gerardo Palacios, who was found supplying gang members with police uniforms, weapons, and ammunition.
The appointment of Arriaza Chicas marked a turning point for the PNC. Under his leadership, the police force underwent significant reforms, enhancing its effectiveness and reputation. Peñate emphasized that the battle against gangs was akin to a war, and the PNC, in conjunction with the Armed Forces, made substantial strides in this fight.
As El Salvador mourns the loss of a key figure in its security forces, Arriaza Chicas’s legacy is defined by his commitment to restoring integrity and trust within the PNC and his instrumental role in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat organized crime.