Chile: Police arrest protesters in Santiago and Valparaíso May 1

Event

On Friday, May 1, police officers arrested protesters who had gathered to mark International Workers' Day in the cities of Santiago and Valparaíso despite restrictions introduced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In Santiago, law enforcement detained 57 demonstrators who had gathered at Plaza Baquedano despite a government order against gatherings of over 50 people. In Valparaíso, 39 people were arrested after police dispersed a demonstration at Plaza Aníbal Pinto.

Further unrest, and potential clashes between demonstrators and police officers, cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Individuals in Chile, particularly in Santiago and Valparaíso, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.