Former Bolivian Navy Commander Juan Arnes Salvador has been taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation into the recent attempted coup, according to Bolivia TV.
Jerrymusa.com reports that Arnes is the second high-ranking military officer to be detained, following the arrest of General Juan Jose Zuniga, who led the failed coup attempt.
“The actions of General Zuniga and his followers were a clear attempt to overthrow the government,” said President Arce. “We will not tolerate any attempts to undermine democracy and stability in our country.”
The Coup Unfolds
The attempted coup occurred on June 26, when a group of military personnel, loyal to General Zuniga, gathered in front of the government building in La Paz.
“They tried to take control of the capital city, but our security forces were able to regain control quickly,” said a government spokesperson.
President Arce swiftly appointed a new commander-in-chief, Jose Wilson Sanchez, to restore order.
Sanchez promptly ordered all military personnel to return to their barracks, resulting in the dispersal of the group and a return to calm in the capital city.
“The detentions and investigations signal a strong stance by the government against any attempts to undermine democracy and stability in the country,” said a government official.
The incident has raised concerns about the fragility of democracy in Bolivia, but the government has assured citizens that it is in control and will not allow any further attempts to disrupt the peace.