Peru: Military deployed as protesters continue to block Pan-American Highway in multiple locations and clash with police as of Dec. 23 /update 2

Event

As of Dec. 23, Peruvian military forces have been deployed to the Viru and Chao districts of La Libertad Region amid ongoing major clashes between police and protesters who have been blocking the Pan-American Highway. Clashes also continue between protesters and security forces along the Pan-American Highway in Ica Region, especially in the neighborhoods of Barrio Chino, La Expansion, and El Alamo, near the city of Ica.

The demonstrations and clashes have severely disrupted transport along the highway. Most inter-provincial bus transit near the affected areas has been suspended, and long lines of trucks have formed as cargo shipments throughout the country are delayed. Agricultural firms in the affected areas have ceased their operations due to the ongoing unrest.

Continued clashes and transport disruptions are likely as security forces attempt to forcibly disperse protesters and reopen the highway.

Context

The protesters are demanding the immediate repeal of a law regulating the agricultural sector that they claim will negatively impact their salaries and benefits. Blocking the Pan-American Highway is a particularly disruptive tactic, as the thoroughfare is the main route used for north-south transport in Peru as well as international trade between Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. On Dec. 3, related protests blocking the highway in the same areas turned deadly when a police officer opened fire on the crowd.

Advice

Avoid the protests as a standard security precaution. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them instead. If violence breaks out, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Allow additional travel time to reach destinations along the Pan-American Highway and in the immediate vicinity. Confirm all business appointments.