02 Sep 2022 | 02:14 AM UTC
Argentina: Tensions increase at rallies for the vice president in Recoleta, Buenos Aires, after gun incident late Sept. 1 /update 1
Rallies for vice president likely to continue, may intensify in Recoleta, Buenos Aires, Argentina, through early Sept. after gun incident.
Event
Demonstrations relating to Vice President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner are likely to continue and possibly intensify near her residence, located at the intersection of Calle Juncal and Calle Uruguay in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires, through early September after an assailant threatened her with a gun late Sept 1. At approximately 21:00, a man drew a handgun and briefly pointed it at Kirchner from close range before being detained by security forces. Kirchner was not harmed in the incident, but clashes between police and demonstrators followed the arrest. Officials did not immediately confirm a motive for the incident.
Activists have organized rallies near the vice president's house after federal prosecutors requested Aug. 22 that she be sentenced to 12 years in prison for alleged corruption. Tensions grew after local authorities erected barricades near the residence; on Aug. 27, police fired tear gas on protesters after a group of people attempted to knock down the barriers outside the vice president's home. The ensuing clashes injured at least 14 police officers and led to the arrests of four protesters.
Authorities will likely increase their already heightened security presence in the area to monitor any additional demonstrations. Clashes between supporters and opponents of Kirchner are possible. Clashes between demonstrators and police also remain possible; police may attempt to forcibly disperse groups of demonstrators perceived to be disruptive, including using tear gas or water cannons. With this recent incident, the possibility for more intense or widespread demonstrations in Buenos Aires increases. Further rallies and clashes would likely cause localized transport and business disruptions.
Advice
Avoid all related demonstrations. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
