Bolivia Highway Blockade Turns Violent: Police Overwhelmed in Cochabamba

Cochabamba Clashes: Police Overwhelmed by Protestors Cochabamba, Bolivia – Violent clashes erupted late on June 3, 2025, between police and protestors blocking a major highway connecting Cochabamba to the western region of the country. The incident, which began around 6 PM near Sipe Sipe, quickly escalated into a chaotic scene involving stones, firecrackers, and tear gas. A Unitel Bolivia reporter, Marcelo Beltrán, described the situation: "The police were initially outnumbered and outmatched. Protestors, many of whom were evistas, had effectively ambushed a small group of officers." The video footage shows protestors aggressively advancing against a line of police officers, who retreated as the situation worsened. The reporter also noted the use of tear gas by the police and the protestors' use of more extreme measures, including dynamite. The conflict forced authorities to deploy additional police units to the area to restore order. At least 10 police officers were reported injured. While the road was temporarily cleared, the potential for further conflict remains.