Peru: Clashes occur as protesters continue to block Pan-American Highway in multiple locations /update 1

Event

Major clashes are underway as of the afternoon of Dec. 22 as police attempt to forcibly disperse protesting agricultural workers who have erected roadblocks at several locations along the Pan-American Highway. A major police deployment is underway at protest sites, where security officials have deployed teargas and protesters have set fires and thrown debris. Traffic on the highway is severely disrupted as a result of the protests and clashes.

In northern Peru, the largest demonstrations are in the Viru and Chao districts of La Libertad Region. In southern Peru, roadblocks have been set up throughout much of the Ica Region, especially in the neighborhoods of Barrio Chino, La Expansion, and El Alamo, near the city of Ica. Additional protests are possible along other sections of the highway, especially in agricultural zones.

The demonstrations have significantly disrupted transport along the highway. Notably, Lima's Plaza Norte bus terminal, one of the largest in the country, has suspended departures due to the difficulties in inter-provincial travel posed by the roadblocks. Clashes between demonstrators and security personnel are likely, especially if authorities attempt to disperse the gatherings forcibly and reopen the highway. On Dec. 3, similar protests blocking the highway in the same areas turned deadly when a police officer opened fire on the crowd.

Context

The protesters are demanding the immediate repeal of a law regulating the agricultural sector that they claim will negatively impact their salaries and benefits. Blocking the Pan-American Highway is a particularly disruptive tactic, as the thoroughfare is the main route used for north-south transport in Peru as well as international trade between Peru, Ecuador, and Chile.

Advice

Avoid the protests as a standard security precaution. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them instead. If violence breaks out, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Allow additional travel time to reach destinations along the Pan-American Highway and in the immediate vicinity. Confirm all business appointments.