723.2515/406: Telegram
The Consul at La Paz (Hazeltine), Temporarily at Arica, to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received January 16, 9.29 a.m.]
In reply to Department’s telegram January 3 [2], 6 p.m. I have completed investigations in Tacna Arica, mob violence against Peruvian [citizens] and property verified absolutely. Situation arose after signing of the armistice. Nine thousand Peruvians telegraphed to Peruvian President requesting him to congratulate Ministers of all Allied Powers on their victory. The telegram mentioned oppressed small nations in general.
Arica mobs wrecked houses of Peruvians December 21, 8 p.m., and again December 22, 5 p.m. Nearly all Peruvians residing in Tacna Arica have been warned to leave under duress; virtual reign of terror exists for them. It is reported that all Peruvian people living in Azapa Valley will be forced to leave at an early date abandoning farms which they have cultivated for a long time. I will telegraph further developments.
Forced expulsion is carried out by the Liga Patriotica headed by Manuel Araya, President, who is employee of the Arica-La Paz [Page 145] Railway, Francisco Lope Handia, wharf master, vice president, Joaquin Diaz, customs inspector, and others. In some instances typewritten warnings specifying time limit are sent but frequently victims are taken by force without warning, assaulted, robbed, and deported without funds, farewell or families. Typewritten warnings have been traced to the office of the Arica-La Paz Railway of which Vice-Governor of this Province is now acting manager.
I investigated several cases thoroughly. The following is typical: Manuel Lecunza, a Peruvian citizen who has been telegraph operator employee of the West Coast Cable Company in Arica 18 years seized by party of workmen led by Joaquin Diaz January 8. He was brutally assaulted, robbed and put aboard British steamship Peru. He was not permitted to adjust business interests, his wife was left in Arica. On the same day, a Peruvian citizen was taken from our consular agency while transacting business. Energetic interference by the American consular agent accomplished a release. Numerous similar cases in Arica and Tacna.
The local authorities to all intents and purposes tacitly approve the methods and the actions of the Liga Patriotica. Prompt action should be taken to avoid more serious situation. Foreign residents are unanimous in their indignation on account of the unfair treatment of Peruvians.
I am reliably informed local conditions in general in Arica by no means warrant wholesale deportation.
Feelings attributable antipathy and politics and will make plebiscite provided for by article 3, treaty of Ancon, a farce. I will arrive in Iquique next Saturday.