Brazil: Protesters disrupt traffic on Rio de Janeiro's Radial Oeste Avenue June 28

Event

Protesters have disrupted traffic along Radial Oeste Avenue (Presidente Castelo Branco Avenue) in Rio de Janeiro, June 28. The demonstrators have set fire to tires and disrupted traffic into the city center; Radial Oeste Avenue is Rio de Janeiro's main route connecting neighborhoods in the north of the city and the city center. As of 09:30, the police have removed the barricades outside Maracana Stadium; however, protesters remain in the area. Authorities have advised motorists to use alternative routes via Visconde de Niteroi Road, or Conde do Bonfim Road.

The demonstrators are denouncing a proposed bill on land demarcation that they say is detrimental to indigenous communities.

An increased police presence and localized transport and business disruptions are likely to continue in the area over the coming hours. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Demonstrators may also disrupt traffic in other areas in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro.

Advice

Avoid the protest location as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow extra time for travel in the vicinity of any gatherings.