A confrontation between the police and protesters supporting former Bolivian President Evo Morales took place in Cochabamba. The roads in this central department were blocked, resulting in dozens of injuries, including 14 police officers, and the detention of 44 people in Parotani.
Bolivia's Minister of Government, Eduardo Del Castillo, explained that the police action was part of the "Recovering the Homeland" plan to unblock strategic routes that had affected fuel supply and mobility in the region, leaving other areas of the country without road communication. The clashes were severe, with protesters using weapons and explosives.
In total, 64 people were detained and face charges including crimes against transportation security, injuries, organized crime, and terrorism. The police responded with chemical agents to allow the passage of stranded emergency vehicles.
The government deployed 1,700 police officers from various departments and requested military support. Nearly 200 soldiers were sent to assist in removing the blockades. Economic losses from the blockades are estimated at 1.193 billion dollars, affecting trade and increasing prices of basic necessities.
In the city, a town hall meeting was held where Evo Morales was declared "persona non grata" and the government was called to provide an immediate solution to the blockades. The police and military intervention has increased polarization in Bolivia, with both sides firm in their positions. Bolivian society hopes that fair measures will be applied and that the conflict situation will be resolved as soon as possible.
