At least 12 injured in airport takeover bid by Peru protesters

At least 12 injured in airport takeover bid by Peru protesters
Fecha de publicación: 
7 January 2023
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Lima, Jan 7 (EFE).- At least 12 people were injured, including four police officers, during clashes as anti-government protesters allegedly tried to take over an airport near Peru’s border with Bolivia on Friday, officials said.

Protesters marched outside the Inca Manco Capac airport in Juliaca, in Peru’s southern Puno region.

Local news outlets reported, and images on social media showed protesters attempting to enter the airport. They torched a police vehicle at its entrance.

Police officers resisted their move to take over the airport and used force to disperse them, but demonstrators continued their protests in surrounding areas.

The Ombudsman’s office said eight civilians and four cops suffered injuries in the clashes near the airport.

The Carlos Monge Medrano hospital reported on Facebook that nine people were admitted to the facility.

It said four civilians had gunshot wounds, and two had facial injuries. Cops had injured eyes, hands, and feet.

Andean Airports of Peru, which operates the Inca Manco Cápac airport, said services were suspended “due to the violent acts and lack of security that have put the safety of our team and passengers at risk.”

The firm said it was coordinating with airlines and the airport community to resume operations as soon as possible.

Protesters in the crisis-ridden country forced the temporary closure of three airports in Peru in December.

At least 28 civilians lost their lives in 20 days of protests before a Christmas truce came into effect.

Anti-government demonstrations seeking President Dina Boluarte’s resignation resumed on Wednesday after a two-week hiatus. EFE

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