A self-appointed group broke into the Chile Salmon Growers'' Association''s HQ in Puerto Montt during the early hours of 4 May and set fire to it, reports Peter J. Neilson.
Prompt action by firemen saved the timber-built building from being completely consumed by the flames, although damage was severe.
Government officials, artisan fishing leaders, union leaders, politicians and many others criticised this act of vandalism, which is thought to be a revenge for the thousands of salmon industry workers laid off due to the economic crisis which has been aggravated with the severe outbreaks of the ISA virus.
Puerto Montt's Governor Oscar Valenzuela visited the damaged building first thing in the morning and presented a writ in the local court of Justice against "whoever results responsible for this incredible vandalism against the salmon industry."
Fortunately there were no victims and a SalmonChile spokesman says that the building is insured.
Many computers and other equipment - including files - were destroyed.
