On 15 March 2025, in Cantumarca (Potosi), two groups of residents, one of them supporters of the mayor of Potosi (Popular Civic Movement - Potosi) clashed with each other over land dispute using dynamites, rocks, and other objects. One of the groups, called without a roof (Los sin Tierra) was accused of having trespassed spiritual and sacred plots of land. At least 12 people resulted injured during the clashes and were taken to hospital. One of the groups denounced four leaders of their community being retained. Police forces intervened using tear gas to disperse the crowds and arrested five people with explosives. There were no fatalities.

Supply-chain Risk Briefing: Potosí Region Riots in Bolivia

1) Summary On March 15, 2025, clashes erupted between resident groups in Cantumarca, Potosí Department, Bolivia, over land disputes, resulting in violent confrontations using dynamite and stones that left at least 12 people injured. The conflict stems from sacred site encroachment issues between supporters of the Potosí mayor and the 'Luz Sin Tierra' (homeless) group.

2) Supply-chain impact

• Mining region instability: Potosí Department is a major mineral production area in Bolivia, and social conflicts within the region could indirectly affect mining activities for silver, zinc, tin, and other minerals
• Inland logistics network vulnerability: Regional social unrest due to land disputes could negatively impact the stability of overland transport routes between mines and ports
• Labor supply risk: If conflicts between local residents intensify, concerns arise over securing local workforce necessary for mine operations and maintaining community cooperation
• Political instability spread: If the conflict structure related to the Potosí municipal government leads to weakened regional administrative capacity, delays in mining permits and regulatory operations are possible

3) Watch points

• Additional conflict occurrence: Without fundamental resolution of land disputes, the likelihood of similar violent incidents recurring is high, requiring continuous monitoring of local conditions
• Potosí Department mining operations status: Confirmation needed on whether regional unrest leads to operational shutdowns or production decreases at major mining facilities