Bolivia Vice President Lara Calls for Probe into Civilian Participation in Police Operations

Vice President Edmand Lara Montaño voiced deep concern over recent violence in San Julián, Río Abajo, La Paz and El Alto, where civilians were alleged to have taken part in police‑military operations aimed at reopening the Santa Cruz–Trinidad road. He demanded an independent investigation into reports of civilians handling explosives, using state vehicles and engaging in confrontations, urging authorities to prevent the normalization of such practices.

Lara emphasized that public security is the exclusive duty of the Bolivian Police and constitutional institutions, calling for an end to civilian involvement in security tasks. He appealed to national and international observers, including the CIDH, UN and OAS, to monitor the situation, and stressed the need for responsible authority, respect for the law and dialogue to restore public confidence.