Convoy pushes through to Imbabura; Gov’t says it will take two or three days to clear all roadblocks

A government convoy of more than120 vehicles arrived in Ibarra, capital of Imbabura Province, late Monday. In addition to police and military vehicles, the convoy escorted dozens of supply trucks carrying food, LP gas cannisters and other essential items to an area isolated by roadblocks maintained by anti-government strikers.

Soldiers and police prepare to lead the government convoy to Imbabura Province Monday morning at Tababela.

An estimated 1,500 police and military personnel led the convoy, clearing roadblocks by hand and with bulldozers.

According to the Interior Ministry, most of the 100-kilometer trip from Tababela was uneventful. Protesters threw rocks at several locations and two Molotov cocktails were reportedly thrown at a military troop carrier in La Esperanza, near Ibarra. Police dispersed crowds with tear gas at two locations.

At some roadblocks, soldiers and police engaged in friendly conversation with protesters, who offered them water and hot tea.

“We were prepared for violence but we are pleased that it was limited,” said Interior Minister Jhon Reimberg. “Most of the blockages we encountered had been abandoned and, in some cases, local residents helped us clear the debris.”

Reimberg said that all roadblocks in Imbabura Province will be dismantled within two or three days. “Our mission is not only humanitarian — to deliver supplies — but to restore order to this area. This means clearing all roads that are currently blocked.”

He added: “No one is stopping us now. The disruptions in Imbabura are over.”