Bolivian peasant leader who led road blockades arrested

Vicente Salazar, a prominent peasant leader in Bolivia and a key figure behind recent road blockades, has been arrested as part of an investigation into the widespread disruptions caused by the protests. The blockades, which lasted for over seven weeks, were organized by peasant unions and the Bolivian Workers' Central (COB) to demand the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz.

Salazar, the top leader of the 'Tupac Katari' Departmental Federation of Campesinos, was apprehended in El Alto, a city neighboring La Paz. The Ministry of Government confirmed his arrest, stating that he is under investigation for alleged crimes including public incitement to commit crimes, criminal association, terrorism, and attacks against the security of transport and public services.

According to the ministry, Salazar is identified as one of the organizers and conveners of the road blockades that paralyzed various regions. The protests led to severe shortages of food, fuel, and medical oxygen in some cities. Official reports indicate at least 16 deaths, with 13 attributed to the lack of timely medical attention due to the blockades, and economic losses estimated at over $3 billion.

Following agreements with sectors like the COB, President Paz declared a state of exception on June 20 to dismantle the blockades, leading to police and military intervention. The Prosecutor's Office recently accepted a complaint filed by the Civic Committee of Santa Cruz against Morales, Salazar, and the COB leader Mario Argollo, accusing them of armed uprising, terrorism, and criminal association for the damages caused by the protests.

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These events are part of the investigations that jurisdictional bodies are carrying out within the framework of actions aimed at clarifying responsibilities for the impact on the population.