What did the kidnapping in Soriano leave behind and why are protocols being reviewed?
A search team located the bodies of Alfonsina and Francisco, ages two and six, along with that of the man who had forcibly transported them, in a car recovered submerged in the Don Esteban stream. The discovery, at kilometer 58 of Route 20, concluded a 48-hour search involving specialized divers, drones, and hundreds of officers. Forensic examinations will be key to reconstructing the events and determining criminal responsibility.
Vicarious Violence: the qualification that guides the investigation
The Prosecutor's Office adopted the term vicarious violence to frame the case, a term that defines the use of children to inflict harm on the mother. This classification changes the course of action because it combines criminal offenses with obligations to provide social protection and psychological support, which is why the teams in charge must coordinate actions between justice, health, and social services. Local organizations and specialists emphasize the need for integrated protocols for this type of aggression.
Police Search: Deployment, Resources, and Operational Limits
The search mobilized more than 300 personnel, including ground searches, camera inspections, drones, and support from the Navy, whose divers located the vehicle at a depth of three meters. Official sources explained that the assailant had already left his home when the operation was launched, which made interception en route and toll control difficult. Authorities maintain that available protocols were applied, although they acknowledge that premeditation complicated any attempt at preventive detention.
Judicial Protocols: Competencies, Anklets, and Critical Decisions
The briefing emphasized that the adoption of precautionary measures such as electronic anklets is the responsibility of the Judiciary, not the Prosecutor's Office or the Police. The Prosecutor's Office confirmed that resources—including a helicopter—had been provided to expedite the search, but the focus now is on reviewing the timing and institutional responsibilities to prevent similar cases. The public debate calls for greater coordination without violating procedural guarantees.
Child Protection: assistance, prevention and support for families
State agencies and civil society organizations emphasized the availability of helplines and psychological and legal support services for victims of gender-based violence and their children. Experts propose strengthening early detection through training, local support networks, and protocols that facilitate communication between health, education, and security. The community also received practical information on how to access emergency resources and counseling.
Forensic investigation and upcoming steps in the case
The vehicle pulled from the stream was taken to court for expert analysis, which will attempt to reconstruct the timeline, the causes of death, and possible omissions in institutional action. The Prosecutor's Office announced that it will ensure transparency in the process and that the evidence will determine any criminal liability. Meanwhile, the family and the community hope that the investigation will provide answers and justice.
Social repercussions: demands and proposals for change
The tragedy sparked a public outcry and calls for a review of protection, prevention, and rapid response protocols for the risk of vicarious violence. Specialists and organizations are calling for prioritizing risk measures, improving inter-institutional coordination, and promoting campaigns that encourage early reporting. For many in society, this episode highlights the urgent need for more agile and effective systems to protect victims before the situation escalates.
