Peru: Activists to protest nationwide December 4-5 over recent protester deaths

Event

Activists have called for nationwide protests Dec. 4 over the recent death of a protester in the La Libertad region Dec. 3, as well as two others killed during demonstrations in mid-November. In the most recent incident, the demonstrator was allegedly killed by police during the ongoing protests demanding the repeal of the Agricultural Promotion Law; these protests have caused major disruptions on the Pan-American Highway in recent days. In Lima, activists are expected to march from Plaza San Martin to Congress from 1700. Elsewhere, demonstrators are likely to continue blockading the Pan-American Highway, especially in the La Libertad and Ica regions.

Additional protests over the issue have been announced at major plazas nationwide Dec. 5. Further protests are highly likely over the coming days, especially if there are additional reports of perceived excessive use of force by police.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the protests. As highlighted by the recent protester death, there is an elevated threat of violence at all protests. Police could respond with riot control tactics, deploying tear gas and using shotguns to fire rubber pellets at protesters at related demonstrations. The protests are likely to major transport and potentially commercial disruptions, especially in Lima, and near blockades on the Pan-American Highway.

Advice

Avoid all protests and do not attempt to cross any roadblocks. If violence breaks out nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location. Strictly heed instructions from authorities. Confirm appointments. Allow additional time to reach your destinations if operating in Peru, especially in Lima.