Colombia farmers’ strike causes shortages

Entire regions cut off for a week as farmers block dozens of major roads across the South American country.

Angry farmers in Colombia are causing widespread disruption and riot police are trying to stop them from blocking major roads.

Farmers accuse the military of using live ammunition against demonstrators and tossing tear gas into people’s houses.

With the strike entering its second week, some towns are already facing shortages of fuel and food.

The protesters want the government to provide subsidies for agricultural products and cheaper fuel prices.

The government says it will not negotiate until all the roadblocks are lifted – something these farmers are refusing to do.

The government also accuses armed rebels of infiltrating the protest.

Al Jazeera’s Alessandro Rampietti reports from the city of Tunja.

Source: Al Jazeera

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