15 Jan 2024 | 02:24 PM UTC
Bolivia: Farmers' group to protest in Santa Cruz Department from Jan. 16
Farmers' group plans to protest and block roads in Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia, from Jan. 16.
The Single Union Confederation of Peasant Workers of Bolivia (Confederacion Sindical Unica de Trabajadores Campesinos de Bolivia) plans to launch an indefinite strike in the Santa Cruz Department from Jan. 16. Organizers have threatened to block roads. The action is in response to an attack by assailants on the group's offices in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Jan. 13. The protesters allege the assailants are linked to the government.
Participants are likely to establish roadblocks on roads in the department; these are likely to concentrate on routes near Santa Cruz de la Sierra. In addition to road blockades, protesters could gather in cities and towns, particularly near government buildings, union offices, or town centers. Officials are likely to deploy to the site of any roadblock or related protest that materializes. Clashes cannot be ruled out, especially if police attempt to disperse protesters and reopen blocked roads forcibly.
Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow additional transport time. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to clear them instead. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
