Toxic quicklime was allegedly thrown in the faces of 35 military recruits as part of a sick initiation ceremony.
Several victims have filed a complaint after suffering burns to their throat, lungs and eyes.
In total, over 20 recruits suffered the same injuries.
READ MORE: Boy, 10, dies after falling down 49ft deep well after cover gives way
The initiation ritual, which allegedly consisted of throwing quicklime in the paratroopers’ faces, was carried out in Córdoba, Argentina.
According to prosecutors, officials of the 14th Paratrooper Infantry Regiment threw the caustic powder over 35 recruits at the end of their training period.
Footage shows officials shouting “paratroopers” at the recruits as they reply “always” in turn.
A white powder is then thrown in their faces.
The Argentine Army said in a statement that 20 recruits were “evacuated to the Córdoba Military Hospital where they received medical attention and tests were carried out”.
“A small group remained under observation and was later discharged.”
The Army also claimed that it was “a mistake” that quicklime was used as the white powder was supposed to be flour.
They said the act was carried out as part of an internal disciplinary proceeding due to poor performance in training.
The statement said: “The initiation of internal punitive actions was ordered within the framework of disciplinary protocol due to a determined lack of control.
“As such, the corresponding disciplinary sanctions were imposed on all those responsible.”
Prosecuting lawyer Jerónimo Argañaraz disputed the Army’s claim that quicklime was used instead of flour because of an “error”, as reported by Need To Know.
He believes Army officials are culpable of “very serious misconduct”.
An investigation into the allegations is ongoing.
READ MORE: Bull tosses man around like rag doll at free-for-all bullfight
