Bolivia: Protesters likely to continue blocking roads in Santa Cruz Department through at least Feb. 26 /update 1

Event

Protesting agricultural workers will likely continue blocking roads in Santa Cruz Department over the coming days in response to government price controls on soy products. Organizers plan to keep protesting until the administration changes the controls in question. As of Feb. 23, the roadblocks are continuing to cause significant transport disruptions throughout the department. Protesters have reportedly blocked thoroughfares in the municipalities of Cuatro Canadas, El Puente, Pailon, Los Troncos, San Julian, and Okinawa. They have also blocked transit across three bridges in the department - Puente Banegas, east to Okinawa; Puente la Amistad, west of Montero; and Puente Pailas, east of Puerto Pailas.

Additional protests and roadblocks are possible, especially in rural areas of Santa Cruz Department. Clashes cannot be ruled out, especially if police attempt to disperse demonstrators forcibly and unblock roads.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow for additional travel time throughout the area. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to clear them instead. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building.