The convoy of Bolivia's Public Works Minister Mauricio Zamora was ambushed by protesters on Saturday. Minister Zamora became separated from his group briefly. He was overseeing an effort to clear roadblocks. Local media reported the incident in Copata town.
These roadblocks were set up by antigovernment demonstrators. They aimed to slow down the delivery of essential goods to La Paz and El Alto. The mission to create "humanitarian corridors" for supplies faced renewed violence. Some convoys were reportedly attacked with stones and dynamite.
Bolivia is experiencing a severe economic crisis. Protests by trade unions and supporters of former President Evo Morales have intensified. They are protesting President Rodrigo Paz's austerity measures. His alignment with the United States is also a point of contention. Paz took office just six months ago.
Bolivian police and military forces were deployed early Saturday. They used bulldozers to remove rocks and concrete pillars blocking roads. The goal was to ensure food and medicine reached the capital. However, clashes with protesters broke out in several areas. Roadblocks were re-established despite these efforts.
Minister Zamora's vehicle was pelted with stones and dynamite in Copata. His car became separated as the convoy retreated. He was able to take a dirt road. His vehicle then encountered a second ambush. He eventually reunited with the main convoy. Elsewhere, protesters looted and burned a customs post. They also destroyed a military truck and a police station.
President Paz was elected on a promise to fix Bolivia's economy. He decided to remove long-standing fuel subsidies. This action, amidst shortages and inflation, increased the cost of living. It angered a significant part of the population. Former President Evo Morales supports the ongoing protests. He has opposed United States involvement in Latin America.
The Paz government accuses Morales of inciting the unrest. President Paz stated he is pursuing dialogue with demonstrators. He also commented that "Everything has a limit." The government denied reports of a death during the protests. Journalists covering the operation also reported attacks.