Guatemala police warn they will act firmly against unrest or infiltrators at protests

Guatemala’s National Civil Police has warned that it will act firmly against disturbances or infiltrators during demonstrations over rising fuel prices, while saying it respects the right to protest peacefully.

In a public statement, the PNC said freedom of expression and the right to communicate discontent must be protected. It also stressed that freedom of movement is a fundamental right for all citizens. “Permanent obstruction or blocking of the country’s roads and arteries is not permitted,” the institution said.

The police urged demonstrators to maintain alternate and intermittent routes. They asked protesters to prioritize people traveling for medical treatment or to hospitals, as well as the movement of medicines, medical supplies and essential food for Guatemalan families.

The PNC also called for open dialogue with those blocking roads, with mediation support from the Human Rights Ombudsman’s Office and the Interior Ministry. It asked organizations and community leaders to monitor their own demonstrations and prevent outsiders from causing disturbances, vandalism or public-order problems.

The institution said its protocols would follow a human-rights approach, but added that the law allows it to act against conduct that threatens social peace or constitutes a crime in public spaces. By 2:26 p.m. on Friday, September 4, the General Directorate for Road Protection and Security reported five active blockades out of nine recorded since morning. The Guatemala Chamber of Commerce also sought a constitutional injunction, and said the Constitutional Court had issued a provisional order requiring authorities to act immediately to guarantee free movement.

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Permanent obstruction or blocking of the country’s roads and arteries is not permitted.