Chile: Protesting truck drivers blocking Route 5 south between Concepcion and Puerto Montt March 6

Event

Protesting truck drivers are blocking Route 5 south between Concepcion and Puerto Montt as of April 6, causing significant transport and business disruptions in the southern regions of Bio-Bio, La Araucania, and Los Lagos. The purpose of the action is to condemn the alleged lack of security on the highway, where trucks frequently come under attack by armed groups claiming to be defending the ethnic Mapuche homeland. While the government had earlier reached an agreement with the drivers to end the protest, many drivers plan to continue protesting until a government minister signs a pledge to guarantee their security along the thoroughfare.

Police will likely deploy to the area; clashes between demonstrators and security forces are possible.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Seek alternatives to Route 5 south or consider delaying transport until the protests are over. Heed the instructions of security personnel. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area or seek shelter in a non-governmental building.