Chile steps up security after bomb hurts 14

SANTIAGO, Chile — Chile’s president yesterday increased security measures and expanded powers to investigate a day after a bomb attack injured 14 people in the country’s capital.The lunchtime blast on Monday ripped through a fast-food restaurant next to a busy subway station. It was the most damaging of nearly 30 bombings in Santiago this year, and the worst attack of its kind since the country’s return to democracy in 1990.

“Those who carry out this acts think they will frighten us, but we’re not going to let a small group of terrorists and cowards scare the vast majority who want a peaceful country,” President Michelle Bachelet said after she led a high-level security meeting.

“I have instructed the interior minister to reinforce security on the subway system and in places where lots of people gather,” Bachelet said.

“The coordination between police and intelligence organisms will be key to obtaining concrete results in the investigations. Our hand will not tremble with these sorts of acts.”

No group has claimed responsibility so far, but many past bombings have been claimed by anarchist groups. — AP.