Molotov Attack Targets IV Air Brigade in Mendoza, Argentina
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In the early hours of Friday, a Molotov cocktail attack occurred at the entrance of the IV Air Brigade in Mendoza, Argentina, sparking alarm in the area.
Known as "El Plumerillo," the IV Air Brigade is a key unit of the Argentine Air Force, specializing in fighter pilot training with IA-63 Pampa advanced trainer jets and high-altitude search and rescue operations using Aérospatiale SA-315B Lama helicopters. The modern Bell 407 GXi helicopters are gradually replacing the Lama fleet.
Attack on the Military Base Entrance
The explosive device was thrown at the entrance sign of the military base, located at Avenida Fuerza Aérea, kilometer 7.5, in the town of El Plumerillo, Las Heras. Fortunately, no injuries or major material damage were reported.
Ongoing Investigation and Previous Attacks
Friday's incident was not an isolated case. According to Mendoza-based newspaper El Sol, authorities had already been investigating previous Molotov cocktail attacks against the base, raising concerns within the community and prompting increased security measures in the area. The case, initially classified as an "attack," is now under the jurisdiction of Federal Justice.
Suspect Arrested in Connection to the Attacks
On Sunday at around 1:00 AM, officers from the Special Patrol Unit of Las Heras (UEP) arrested Martín Andrés Contreras, 41, as the prime suspect in the attacks.
The alert was issued by an Argentine Air Force lieutenant, who identified a white Fiat Palio matching the vehicle used in previous incidents.
Police intercepted the car on Independencia Street. Contreras, who had burn injuries on his hands, attempted to flee using evasive maneuvers but was ultimately stopped near the intersection with Democracia Street.
Evidence Found in the Vehicle
According to Mendoza Today, authorities conducted a search of the vehicle in the presence of a witness and found items consistent with the manufacturing of incendiary devices, including:
- Two empty Corona beer bottles
- Two five-liter fuel containers
- Packages of bandages
- A roll of used masking tape
- A box of matches and a pair of fabric gloves
Release and Court Summons
Contreras was released after his arrest as he had no prior criminal record. However, he was summoned to appear before the prosecutor’s office on Monday morning.
Investigations remain ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack. So far, neither the Argentine Air Force nor the Ministry of Defense has issued an official statement regarding the incident.
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