Mexico: Femicide protesters break into Sonora State Judicial Power in Hermosillo February 23 /update 1

Event

On Sunday, February 23, hundreds of demonstrators broke into and vandalized the Sonora State Judicial Power in Hermosillo to protest the government's response to gender-based violence and high femicide rates. The group, calling themselves the Feministas del Desierto (Women of the Desert), broke furniture and burned documents before dispersing.

Protests have occurred almost daily throughout Mexico since the brutal murders of a woman and girl in Mexico City earlier in February, and have occasionally involved violent clashes with police. Further protests are likely over the coming days.

Women's groups have called for a nationwide strike on Monday, March 9.

Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected in the vicinity of the protests.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business around protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.