Bolivia: Protest activity, associated clashes likely to continue in Villa El Carmen area of La Paz through at least early August /update 1

Event

Further protest activity and associated clashes are likely in the Villa El Carmen neighborhood of La Paz through at least early August following three consecutive days of clashes between protesting coca leaf growers and police in the area Aug. 1-3. The coca leaf growers, affiliated with the Departmental Association of Coca Producers (Asociacion Departamental de Productores de Coca, ADEPCOCA), have organized the demonstrations to demand the closure of a coca market in the area; protesters claim that the market is operating illegally.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain heightened security measures in the affected area until the protest activity abates. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely around demonstration sites.

Advice

Avoid the affected area until the protest activity abates. Allow additional time to reach destinations in La Paz; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent demonstration sites. If violence breaks out, leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.