Chile: Police carry out arrests during protest in Los Angeles (Bío Bío region) October 10; further unrest possible

Event

Police arrested two people following an altercation during a demonstration held by the "Rechazo" movement in Los Angeles (Bío Bío region) on Saturday, October 10, ahead of a constitutional referendum being held on October 25. Reports suggest that fighting broke out between participants and at least two people on the intersection between Avenida Ricardo Vicuña and O'Higgins, during which three people were lightly injured. Reports suggest that the two arrested were those who had provoked the protesters. 

Further associated demonstrations are possible in urban centers across Chile in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions are possible in the vicinity of all demonstrations.

Context

The Chilean national plebiscite which is scheduled for October 25 will address whether a new constitution will be drafted to replace the Pinochet-era constitution in the wake of anti-government protests in 2019. Moreover, it will be decided whether it will be determined by a directly elected constitutional convention or a mixed convention of members of parliament and elected citizens. This new constitution would then be put to another referendum in 2022.

Advice

Those in urban centers in Chile are advised to monitor developments, avoid demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.