25 Mar 2019 | 11:22 PM UTC
Honduras: Further protests by bus drivers possible following March 25 gatherings
Bus drivers stage protest in Tegucigalpa, block access to Toncontín International Airport (TGU) March 25; further protests, clashes possible over coming days
Event
Police in Tegucigalpa used tear gas to disperse a protest and accompanying roadblocks staged by bus drivers on access roads to Toncontín International Airport (TGU) on Monday morning (local time), March 25. Demonstrators rallied to protest a recent crackdown on so-called "brujos" collective buses by the newly formed National Urban Transportation Security Force (FNSTU). Further demonstrations, as well as clashes between police and protesters, are possible over the coming days.
Context
Local bus drivers gathered to protest alleged excessive fines and vehicle seizures committed by transport authorities. Bus drivers staged similar protests along Boulevard Fuerzas Armadas in August 2018. The so-called "brujos" buses are common in Tegucigalpa and, although their status as official public transportation is currently in dispute, they are a popular method of transport because of their relatively low fares.
Advice
Individuals in Tegucigalpa are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations, confirm travel reservations, allow additional time for travel in the vicinity of Toncontín International Airport (TGU), and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
