Statement by the families of Chilenian prisoner Mauricio Hernández Norambuena

Mauricio Hernández Norambuena is a former guerrilla fighter and commander of the political-military organization Manuel Rodríguez Patriotic Front, of which he became one of its main leaders.
He acquired the nickname “Commander Ramiro”, with which he is still widely known today.

Recently, his health is deteriorating and urgent calls for solidarity to get appropriate treatment are issued, ahead of the much delayed demand for his freedom.

Public declaration:

Unfortunately, symptoms of malaise, intermittent fever and high blood pressure persist.

On the other hand, we denounce that, in spite of the fact that in the last few days the Gendarmería has allowed the entry of external doctors for his evaluation and facilitated the performance of various examinations indicated by them, on Friday night our brother was subjected to humiliating treatment by the guard in charge of him.

His sleep was disturbed by unnecessary loud noises (radio at inappropriate volume for a health facility, banging of objects and laughter), as well as keeping the light on in his room against his will.

This situation, despite Mauricio’s request for it to cease, was not considered by the gendarmes, who responded only with laughter and dismissiveness. This resulted in disturbance of his sleep, anxiety and anguish, reliving the torture and isolation suffered for more than 20 years.

The facts described above were communicated to the Gendarmerie and human rights organisations, and the corresponding appeals and complaints were lodged.

We are grateful for the national and international solidarity and concern for our brother.

We continue to be on alert about his situation and will keep you informed about the progress and any solidarity actions that may be required, in which we hope you will join us.

Hernández Norambuena family,

28 June 2025