Chile: State of emergency in four provinces of the Biobio and Araucania regions extended through at least Nov. 26 /update 1

Event

The Chilean government has extended the existing state of emergency in the Biobio Region's provinces of Biobio and Arauco, as well as the Araucania Region's provinces of Cautin and Malleco through at least Nov. 26 due to recent increases in criminality and violent attacks against security forces.

Under the state of emergency, the military is allowed to deploy air, ground, and maritime units in the region and will support police efforts to keep the public order and fight crime. The military leaders assigned to these regions will have the authority to permit or prohibit public gatherings; they will also oversee the entry to, exit from, and transit through their designated areas of responsibility. It remains unclear what other measures may be implemented.

The emergency measures could result in some ground travel and business disruptions. Protests in response to the action are also possible. Any gatherings, particularly unauthorized events, could result in clashes with the security forces.

Advice

Strictly heed instructions of authorities. Confirm appointments in areas subject to the state of emergency. Consider deferring nonessential travel in the region until the situation stabilizes and the state of emergency is lifted. Avoid all protests.