SUMMARY
The present study refers to the process of conformation and expansion of the Chilean State in the mining upstate in the mid-nineteenth century, particularly the implementation of the police apparatus in Taltal between 1877-1888, investigating the daily processes of this, conflicts, complexities and shortcomings generated in said process. Thereby we want to answer the question of how the police apparatus, reporting on a government action characterized by shortcomings and laxity in the implementation of said apparatus, and the growing assumption of prerogatives of the state’s own by privates agents.