Chile: Police clash with anti-government protesters in Santiago October 2

Event

Police clashed with anti-government protesters in Santiago on Friday, October 2, ahead of a constitutional referendum scheduled for October 25. Police fired water cannon and tear gas at some 2000 demonstrators who had gathered at Plaza Italia and at least 16 people were arrested following the clashes. Four police officers and one protester were also injured during the unrest. The gatherings are part of demonstrations against the government of President Sebastián Piñera which have been held in the city every Friday.

Further associated demonstrations are possible in Santiago 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 referendum would then be put to another reference in 2022.

Advice

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