Riots In Honduras Airport: What's Happening And Why?

Honduras has a history of civil unrest and violent protests that can occur anywhere in the country, including Tegucigalpa's National Stadium and the areas surrounding the airport. While protests are usually peaceful, they can quickly turn violent, with looting, tear gas, and injuries or deaths. In addition, roadblocks set up by authorities can cause significant travel disruptions, including at the airport. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about local developments and follow the advice of authorities and tour operators to ensure safety when travelling to and within Honduras.

Football fan riots

On 18 August 2019, football fan riots in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, resulted in three deaths and at least ten injuries. The riot, which took place outside the National Stadium, was sparked by an old grudge between fans of the Olimpia and Motagua football teams. The two sets of supporters had a history of conflict, with Olimpia fans having previously harassed the El Salvador national team in 1969, leading to the Football War.

On the night in question, a crowd believed to be Olimpia supporters intercepted and vandalised a bus transporting Motagua players to the stadium. The rioters threw stones at the bus, shattering the windows and causing shards of glass to hit the players inside. Three Motagua players—Emilio Izaguirre, Roberto Moreira, and Jonathan Rougier—were hospitalised with facial wounds.

The violence escalated, with fans stabbing and shooting at each other, resulting in three deaths, including that of a boy. Seven others were injured by gunshots or stab wounds, with three of them in critical condition. The police responded by firing tear gas, and the match was subsequently suspended by the National Football League.

The Motagua club blamed the Ultra-Faithful Olimpia fan club for the attack and called for the authorities to take severe action. The Ministry of Security confirmed that the perpetrators wore Olimpia team uniforms and stated that they had set up "five rings of security" before the game.

The president of the Olimpia club, Rafael Villeda, said he would meet with the leadership of the National League and Motagua to decide on the future of the game. This incident highlighted the intense rivalry and passion among football fans in Honduras, which has occasionally led to tragic consequences.

Violent crime

Honduras has a high level of violent crime. The country has one of the highest homicide rates in the world, and violent incidents are frequent. Criminals are often armed with guns, machetes, and knives. Violent attacks can occur anywhere and at any time, including in cars and buses. There have also been violent attacks on public buses by local gangs, which have resulted in serious injury or death.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of violent crime in Honduras, it is recommended to avoid walking in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and other major towns and cities in mainland Honduras. It is also advised to be cautious at bus stations, airports, isolated beaches, tourist sites, and on public transport. Keep your valuables locked away in a safe if possible and avoid displaying valuable items such as jewellery, cameras, tablets, laptops, and mobile phones. It is also recommended to avoid travelling after dark and to always carry a small amount of money that can be handed over in the event of a robbery.

In addition, it is important to stay informed about local protests and demonstrations, as they can turn violent with little or no notice. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities or demonstrations in Honduras, and doing so may result in detention or deportation.

Political activities

The U.S. Embassy in Honduras has issued alerts regarding planned protests and advised employees and U.S. citizens to avoid these areas. They have also recommended that travellers maintain awareness of their surroundings, as the situation can change quickly, and to be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly. It is important for foreigners to stay informed about local politics and follow the advice of local authorities, tour operators, and airlines to ensure their safety.

In addition to political activities, Honduras has a high threat of terrorist attacks and a high level of crime, including violent crimes such as armed robbery and sexual assault. The country also faces challenges with drug trafficking and gang-related violence, which can impact the safety of tourists. It is important for foreigners to stay vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and avoid areas of civil unrest to minimise their risk of encountering dangerous situations.

Transport disruptions

Protests and demonstrations are common in Honduras and can happen anywhere in the country, although they normally take place in the main cities of Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and La Ceiba. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn violent, with police responding with tear gas and resulting in deaths and injuries. The authorities may also set up roadblocks at short notice, causing significant travel disruptions.

If you are in Honduras, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times and monitor local media for updates on the current situation. You should also follow the advice of local authorities, your tour operator or airline, and avoid all demonstrations and protests. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities, and if you do so, you may be detained and deported.

Public transportation in Honduras is generally unsafe and unreliable, with poorly maintained vehicles and reckless drivers. There have been incidents of armed robbery and arson on public buses, and it is advised to avoid intercity public transportation. When travelling to the airport, it is recommended to pre-arrange transportation with your hotel, as authorised airport taxi drivers wear easily identifiable ID badges. It is advised to use reliable taxi companies recommended by your hotel and to avoid white street taxis, shared taxis, and taxi stands.

It is also important to note that road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Roads may be poorly delineated due to regular flooding, and there may be roaming livestock and wildlife, as well as poorly maintained roads and bridges. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and may be aggressive and reckless. It is recommended to always drive defensively, maintain heightened awareness, and avoid road travel at night.

Terrorism

Honduras has a high threat of terrorist attacks, which has led to the UK and US governments issuing travel advisories for their citizens. While there is no recent history of terrorism in the country, attacks cannot be ruled out. Protests and demonstrations are common in Honduras and can quickly turn violent, with authorities responding with tear gas and resulting in deaths and injuries. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities, and those who do so risk detention and deportation. The country also has a high level of crime, with tourists occasionally being targeted for armed robbery, sexual assault, and scams. Violent attacks on vehicles and public buses have also been reported, with local gangs and criminal groups active in certain areas. The Honduran government has implemented a state of exception (emergency) to address extortion and gang-related crimes, which may impact freedom of movement and other rights.

To stay safe in Honduras, it is recommended to follow local authorities' advice, monitor local media, and stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid demonstrations and protests, and do not attempt to pass through blockades. Keep travel documents and identification up to date and easily accessible, and carry proper identification at all times. When travelling, have alternative routes in mind and avoid travelling after dark. It is also advisable to leave valuables locked in a safe and to avoid displaying items such as jewellery, cameras, and electronic devices.

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