Mexico: Student activists likely to maintain roadblocks, disrupt traffic in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca State, through at least late September

Student activists will likely maintain roadblocks and disrupt traffic on roadways in Oaxaca City through at least late September to force authorities to meet with them to discuss their various education-related demands. Participants initially gathered on Sept. 18 and. As of Sept. 19, demonstrators escalated their action by forcibly seizing five vehicles and using them to block roads. So far, protesters have blocked the intersection of Diaz Quintas, a roadway near Fonapas gas station, and the ADO bus terminal; the roadblocks have reportedly limited access to the IMSS hospital. Associated protests and roadblocks could spread to other parts of the city over the coming days.

Authorities will probably maintain a heightened security presence near demonstration sites as a precaution. Disruptions to transport and business are likely. Clashes between police and demonstrators cannot be ruled out, especially if security forces attempt to disperse the protesters forcibly.