Peru: Roadblock on the AP 115 in Cotabambas

Event

A group of demonstrators in the Mara district (Cotabambas province, Apurímac region) have been blocking the AP 115, a route used by mining companies to transfer materials to coastal ports, for the past several days. As of Tuesday, August 15, the government was considering declaring a state of emergency to give security forces more authority to deal with the situation.

Context

A similar protest was held in 2016 on the route leading to the Las Bambas mining site. Clashes between demonstrators and police resulted in one death. Generally, protests and strikes are relatively common in Peru, including ongoing teacher and doctor strikes. While most demonstrations remain peaceful, violence can break out with little to no warning. Major protest activity can cause significant disruptions to daily life and travel due to roadblocks, including in areas popular with tourists. 

Advice

Individuals in the area - and Peru more generally - are advised to avoid all protests due to the potential for violence and to never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization.