27 Aug 2020 | 11:26 AM UTC
Chile: Truck drivers' union calls for nationwide strike August 27
Truck drivers’ union calls for nationwide demonstrations and strike from August 27; associated protests and roadblocks likely
Event
The Federation of Truck Owners of the South (Fedesur) has called for a nationwide indefinite strike beginning Thursday, August 27. The group is calling for the strike due to a perceived lack of response from the federal government amid an increase in robberies and assaults on trucks in recent months. Drivers are expected to block roads and highways over the coming days.
Transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any protest.
Context
The strike was called after a nine-year-old girl was hospitalized with a gunshot wound after an attack on her father's cement truck. Police have launched an investigation but have yet to identify suspects.
Advice
Those in Chile are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.