Colombia: Protesters block highway in Silvania, Cundinamarca Department, Nov. 5

Event

Protesters in the Azafranal area of Silvania, Cundinamarca Department, have blocked the Bogota-Girardot highway in both directions Nov. 5. The protesters are demonstrating against local construction projects that they claim have negatively affected their properties. The protest has caused significant transport disruptions in the area, with transport between Bogota and Girardot halted.

While the demonstration has been largely peaceful, police are likely to deploy to the area. Clashes between police and protesters are possible, especially if the police attempt to forcibly disperse demonstrators.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a precaution. Allow for additional transport time. Seek alternative routes that avoid the protest. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them instead. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.