Paraguay, Brazil: Heightened security likely in Ponta Pora and Pedro Juan Caballero through mid-July

Event

Officials in Ponta Pora, Brazil, and Pedro Juan Caballero, Paraguay, are likely to maintain a heightened public police presence through mid-July. Officials on both sides of the border launched an anti-crime operation, July 16, with the aim of preventing cross-border crimes. The end date of the operation is not clear. Furthermore, officials in Paraguay warned, July 14, of a possible attack by armed groups in Pedro Juan Caballero.

Officials are likely to establish additional checkpoints and patrols in both cities. Checks on vehicles crossing the border are also likely to increase in intensity and could result in crossing delays. Confrontations between crime gangs and security personnel could occur. Any violence could lead to an escalation of security measures and localized ground travel and business operation disruptions.

Advice

Exercise caution in the impact locations. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Plan for road travel delays, particularly if traveling or shipping freight across the shared border.