Three Irish nationals are believed to be among a group of tourists trapped in a remote area of Bolivia, amid blockades by protesting coca farmers in the region, writes Kitty Holland.
The farmers, in the El Valle de Sorata area, are understood to be protesting against their government's war on the production of the coca plant and its use in the production of cocaine.
The group of about 40 tourists is also said to include German, Belgian, Swiss, French, British, US and Israeli nationals as well as the three Irish people.
A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said the consular section had been in touch with the Irish Consul in the Bolivian capital, La Paz. "Our honorary consul is monitoring the situation and is offering any services needed," he said. "To the best of our knowledge, the Irish nationals are safe."
The British Foreign Office in London confirmed there were three British nationals in the group and that staff at the British embassy in La Paz were in touch by mobile phone with one of them, Ms Jessica Parker.
"Our staff are advising them to stay where they are. Our advice is that it is not a safe route until the blockades are lifted."
"We are liaising with the Bolivian government, the police and the international community in La Paz to ensure the safety of British tourists," she added.
She said she had "no information on any Irish tourists" but did not think any of the Britons had been hurt.
The Sorata valley, about 130 km south of La Paz, is said to be one of the most beautiful regions of Bolivia and popular with hikers and trekkers.
In other areas of Bolivia, at least 12 people, including three soldiers, have been killed in clashes between farmers and security forces while tourists attempting to cross the barricades have been beaten.
