Police and military clear Bolivia's blocked roads amid state of exception

Bolivian police and military forces have begun clearing road blockades that have disrupted traffic since early May. These blockades, primarily on trunk roads connecting the country's western and central regions, were initiated by various sectors demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. The operation commenced Saturday, following the declaration of a state of exception.

Agents deployed from cities like El Alto, near La Paz, started removing debris such as stones, concrete blocks, and earth mounds placed by protesters. The road to the Andean region of Oruro was a key focus. Some residents in the affected areas applauded the clearing efforts, expressing relief that normal economic activities could resume. Virginia Nieves, a local vendor, shared her struggles, stating the blockades severely impacted her small business and expressing happiness over the state of exception.

The operation, led by Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano, reached Achica Arriba, a site where previous attempts to clear blockades resulted in clashes. Evidence of past confrontations, including a burned official vehicle and destroyed police and toll facilities, was visible. Justiniano described the current work as primarily "cleaning" the routes, noting that some blockades appeared to be "ghost blockades" with only debris remaining.

Minister Justiniano emphasized that the operation proceeded without incident and expressed hope for the restoration of normalcy across the country. He reiterated the government's commitment to dialogue with groups holding legitimate demands but stressed the importance of protecting citizens who have suffered from the disruptions. Similar clearing operations were underway on the road from Cochabamba to the west.