Bolivia launches early-morning crackdown on roadblocks outside La Paz
Bolivia's government has initiated a crackdown on roadblocks set up by protesters outside La Paz, deploying around 3,500 soldiers and police. The protests, driven by various groups including miners and Indigenous communities, are a response to the government's handling of an economic crisis. President Rodrigo Paz's administration has faced criticism for ending fuel subsidies and privatizing state-owned companies, leading to increased food prices and shortages.
- ▪The crackdown began early Saturday morning to clear roadblocks and restore supply routes.
- ▪Approximately 57 people were arrested during the operation.
- ▪Protests have been fueled by discontent over economic mismanagement and rising living costs.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
In PicturesNews|ProtestsBolivia launches early-morning crackdown on roadblocks outside La PazThe government of Rodrigo Paz has sent about 3,500 soldiers and police to clear protesters demanding his resignation.SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoWomen protest against President Rodrigo Paz's government in El Alto, Bolivia, on May 16 [Claudia Morales/Reuters]By Al Jazeera Staff and AFPPublished On 16 May 202616 May 2026Military and law enforcement clashed with demonstrators outside La Paz, Bolivia, in an attempt to clear roadways that had been blocked as part of nationwide antigovernment protests.As many as 3,500 soldiers and police were deployed as part of the operation that began in the early hours of…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Al Jazeera English.