Security firm Tepillé is facing a lawsuit for damages after Comercial Manzini Limitada, a food manufacturer specializing in pasta, empanadas, and croissants, alleged significant failures in the security services contracted for its Quinta Normal facility.
According to court documents, Comercial Manzini Limitada engaged Tepillé’s security services on May 3, 2021, with subsequent addendums signed in February 2023.
The lawsuit claims the company was initially drawn to a commercial offer promising 99% effectiveness, 24-hour permanent monitoring, and a “back-up energy and internet” system designed to keep the security system operational even during power outages lasting up to 72 hours.
However, the situation reportedly changed during the Chilean national holiday period in 2024. Between September 17 and September 23, alleged criminal activity caused a power outage in the area, and the company asserts that the contracted back-up system failed to function as promised.
the factory was allegedly left without effective security for several days, during which time thieves entered the premises and stole a substantial amount of the company’s assets. The legal proceedings state that the system also failed to promptly alert law enforcement or record the events.
A court of first instance ruled in favor of Comercial Manzini Limitada, finding Tepillé in breach of contract and ordering the security firm to pay approximately $45 million in damages. This decision underscores the importance of reliable security infrastructure for businesses, particularly in areas prone to disruptions.
The legal dispute is ongoing, however. Comercial Manzini Limitada maintains that total damages amount to $69 million, encompassing the value of the stolen goods, and has filed an appeal with the Court of Appeals seeking full compensation for its claimed losses.
