Chile: Protesters block Highway 156 near El Patagual, Bio-Bio Region, May 27

Event

Protesters are blocking Highway 156, commonly known as the Ruta de la Madera, near El Patagual, Bio-Bio Region, May 27. The protesters demand that authorities cease burying sea lions that have died in an outbreak of H5N1 avian flu in El Patagual.

The demonstration is likely to cause transport disruptions in the area of Bio-Bio Region south of Concepcion. Police are likely to deploy to monitor the protests, and clashes are possible, especially if authorities attempt to forcibly disperse protesters and reopen the highway.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a precaution. Consider delaying transport on Highway 156 until the protesters disperse or seek alternative routes. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them instead. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.