Prominent Ecuadorian indigenous leader arrested amid protests

By Laura Gamba

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BOGOTA, Colombia (AA) - Ecuadorian authorities have arrested top indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who has been driving strong protests against the government's economic policies.

Police said the leader of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) was arrested in Pastocalle, near the nation’s capital of Quito.

The Interior Ministry said Iza was apprehended “in flagrancy” on Tuesday, “while obstructing the Pan-American Highway.”

“Iza was promoting actions for the resurgence and radicalization of violence,” it said in a statement.

At least 10 provinces have been blocked with burning tires, rocks and tree branches by protesters calling for lower fuel prices.

Indigenous members, students and social organizations are asking President Guillermo Lasso to lower gasoline costs and agricultural goods, reverse the privatization of public services and to stop additional oil and mining development, among other concessions.

Police used tear gas to break up demonstrations on main streets where blockades did not allow access to Quito.

In 2019, riot police faced nationwide demonstrations against then-President Lenin Moreno's austerity measures, forcing him to withdraw plans to raise fuel prices.

CONAIE condemned Iza's arrest as "illegal" and called for more demonstrations in response.

Lasso said authorities will not allow “political groups to destabilize Ecuador, profit from the chaos and paralyze the country.”

But indigenous leaders warned that protests will continue until Lasso gives in to their demands.