Huanta province undergoes strike against extortion and fuel price hikes

The province of Huanta, Peru, underwent a widespread strike on August 31 to protest rising fuel prices, public insecurity, and extortion targeting transport workers. The strike, organized by the Frente de Defensa del Pueblo de Huanta and affiliated organizations, resulted in the paralysis of most economic and commercial activities.

Key impacts included the suspension of public transportation, the closure of markets and businesses, and the transition of educational activities to virtual formats. Protesters also demanded justice regarding the disappearance of teacher Yenifer Cerdán Fernández and called for investigations into alleged corruption within the Red de Salud Ayacucho Norte (UERSAN).

Demonstrators blocked the Ayacucho–Huanta–Vraem highway, leaving many passengers stranded. Local leaders warned that they may escalate their protest measures if their demands for security and economic relief are not addressed by national and regional authorities.