Peru: Farmers clash with police in Huánuco region Feb. 4 /update 2

Event

Potato farmers in the Huánuco region continued to protest on Sunday, February 4. Demonstrators blocked roads in the city of Huánuco near Pilcomarca and the Pavletich bridge, as well as in the Santa María del Valle district. According to officials, eight police officers were wounded during clashes with the protesters.

The government announced on Sunday that a new agreement may be signed with the farmers that could bring the demonstrations to an end. Farmers in the Pasco region agreed to stop striking after meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (Minagri). Further protests are nevertheless possible in the coming days, particularly if negotiations between the government and farmers fail.

Context

The protests are being held to denounce the low price of potatoes and to demand more state aid for farmers. Farmers launched an indefinite strike on January 30, erecting roadblocks in cities and on highways throughout the regions of Junín, Huancavelica, Pasco, Huánuco, Ayacucho, and Apurímac. At least three people have been killed in clashes with the police since the start of the protests.

Advice

Individuals in Peru are advised to systematically avoid all protests due to the risk of further violence, never attempt to cross roadblocks without authorization, verify road conditions prior to inter-city journeys, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.