Protestors from the 32 towns of the province of Huari and the district of Catac, in Ancash, have taken over one of the pipeline valves of the Antamina mine, during the second day of protests against mining pollution in the area.

Protestors were carrying sticks and continuing to block access to the Pativilca-Huaraz road with stones and logs, leaving trucks and buses stranded.

Approximately 900 protesters are demanding the presence of Prime Minister Salomon Lerner Ghitis, in order to discuss their demands, otherwise, they warned, they will intensify their protests.

Aaron Osorio Vega, President Huari’s Mayoral Association, said they would not cease their claims, because they were “in defense of life” and said Antamina had not heard them, according to reports from local radio RPP.

Although protestors claim they are acting peacefully, representatives from Antamina have reported damages caused to their property.

Representatives from the public prosecutors office traveled to the site on Thursday morning, to verify the damages.

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