Honduras: Nationwide anti-government protests and police demonstrations June 19

Event

Tensions broke out as anti-government protesters and 10 percent of the police force protested in Honduras on Wednesday, June 19, causing clashes in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, the Olancho Department, and Comayagua. Road blockades and burning tires were reported in these cities. Reports indicated that cars were blocking roads and the entrance to Tegucigalpa on Wednesday. One person was killed, and 12 people were reported injured in the clashes. Academic activities have been suspended for Thursday, June 20, in Tegucigalpa.

These simultaneous protests were exacerbated by a fuel shortage, which also hit the country on Tuesday, June 18, producing long lines at gas stations and massive traffic disruptions in Tegucigalpa and Olancho, among other areas.

Further related protests are expected in the coming hours and days. Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected in the vicinity of the protests. Clashes cannot be ruled out.

Context

There have been ongoing anti-government protests in Honduras for several months, demanding the resignation of President Juan Orlando Hernandez. Further, the National Directorate of Special Forces (DNFE) entered a strike since Tuesday, June 19, in demand for social guarantees.

Advice

Individuals in Honduras are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruption and a heightened security presence in the event of any demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.