Coca Leaf Eradication Suspended in Bolivia After Community Protest

Yapacaní Coca Leaf Eradication Halted After Community Threat Yapacaní, Bolivia – The eradication of coca leaf in the Yapacaní region of Bolivia has been temporarily suspended following a confrontation between community members and law enforcement on Monday, May 20, 2025. The incident involved approximately 100 community members who protested the eradication efforts, resulting in a tense standoff with the Joint Task Force (FTC) responsible for the operation. "Yesterday, a group of around 100 people arrived here to demand a halt to the coca leaf eradication," stated a member of the FTC in an interview. "They were armed with stones, sticks, and firecrackers, creating a volatile situation." Following the incident, an agreement was reached to suspend the eradication until after the upcoming elections. This decision aims to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict. The FTC remains in the area to maintain security, ensuring the safety of personnel and the community. The temporary suspension highlights the complexities of coca leaf eradication in Bolivia and the need for peaceful resolutions to such conflicts.