Chile: Activists to protest nationwide Feb. 8 against fatal police shooting in Panguipulli, Valdivia Province

Event

Activists plan to hold nationwide protests Feb. 8 to denounce the police killing of a street performer in the small lakeside town of Panguipulli, Valdivia Province, Feb. 5. The fatal shooting reportedly occurred after the performer resisted an identity check and allegedly lunged toward the police officer during the dispute. The incident sparked widespread unrest in Panguipulli during which protesters set fire to several municipal and other buildings and erected protest blockades throughout the town; police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the demonstrations. Violent protests over the shooting also broke out in Santiago Feb. 6.

The largest protests outside Panguipulli Feb. 8 are likely to occur in the following major cities:

• Santiago: Plaza Baquedano (also known as Plaza Italia or Plaza de la Dignidad) from 1800

• Valparaiso: Plaza Victoria from 1200 and Plaza Anibel Pinto from 1700

Demonstrations elsewhere will likely center on central plazas and government buildings. Large gatherings will probably cause major localized disruptions, particularly if demonstrators erect blockades. Police will probably deploy to monitor all large protests. Clashes between police and protesters are possible especially given the anti-police nature of the protests. Police commonly use teargas and water cannon to disperse protesters. Isolated acts of vandalism targeting government buildings and public transport infrastructure are possible.

Context

Local police officials stated that the shooting was in self-defense. The implicated police officer will remain in detention through at least Feb. 8, and authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. Civil society groups and other activists have previously called for reforms to the carabineros (Chilean police) in response to the perceived excessive use of force. The Feb. 5 Panguipulli incident could spark additional protests throughout the country over the issue.

Advice

Avoid all protests and heed the instructions of the authorities. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in the nearest secure location. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks; wait for the police to clear them instead. Monitor local sources to check the status of roads as protest locations may not be announced in advance.