The Deputy Minister of Internal Regime, Jhonny Aguilera, reported the presence of foreign citizens in Chapare. The objective of these would be to provide protection to the former dictator Evo Morales. According to the authority, three security rings have been installed around Morales, preventing his arrest.
This situation has raised concerns in the Government due to its impact on security and national sovereignty. During an operation in the Tropic of Cochabamba, 17 Colombian nationals were arrested.
These individuals were found in a lodging without legal documentation, which raised suspicions about their presence in the region. Aguilera reported that their backgrounds are being checked to determine possible links to criminal networks.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that, in addition to the foreigners, Bolivian citizens were also found around the lodging. These individuals would be linked to vigils organized by Morales's followers. Authorities have intensified controls to prevent undocumented people from entering lodgings and jeopardizing security.
According to Aguilera, the three security rings installed in Lauca Ñ not only include MAS activists but also foreigners. The first ring, as he described, covers an area of nine blocks around Radio Kawsachun Coca. In this sector, the entry of military and police has been prevented, which generates additional concern.
The second security ring is made up of union and neighborhood groups that conduct constant shifts. Aguilera noted that these groups are armed with sticks and firecrackers to prevent any capture attempt. An organizational structure has also been evidenced that ensures the permanence of the vigils.
The third ring, according to the authority, is composed of left-wing political organizations allied with Morales. These groups have shown strong resistance and have stated that they will not allow the former president's arrest. There is fear that the situation could lead to confrontations.
Aguilera reported that the young people of the organizations guarding Morales would be coerced. According to the authority, those who refuse to participate in the vigils may be severely punished. These reports were supported by the Director of Gender of the Cochabamba Municipality.
