Peru: Protests prompt state of emergency in Challhuahuacho March 29

Event

Authorities declared a state of emergency in Challhuahuacho district on Friday, March 29, amid protests by local residents that have obstructed access to Las Bambas copper mine. Demonstrators are demanding financial compensation from the owner of the mine for use of the access road and that the leader of the Fuerabamba community and lawyers be released from police custody. Demonstrations and other public gatherings are prohibited in the district over the next 15 days; authorities are also authorized to search homes during the state of emergency.

Despite the state of emergency and the associated ban on public gatherings, similar demonstrations are to be expected in Challhuahuacho district over the coming days. Localized traffic disruptions and clashes between protesters and security forces are possible in the area.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.