On January 5, 2022, during a protest in Chile concerning long-term drought, seven police…

On January 5, 2022, during a protest in Chile concerning long-term drought, seven police officers were hospitalized after being stung by bees. Local authorities reported that four beekeepers were detained while the officers attempted to arrest them. The drought has severely impacted honey production in Chile by depleting the flowers and crops that bees rely on for food.

Scientists believe that while droughts are not uncommon in Chile, the current severe drought has persisted since 2010, with climate change contributing to the situation. Beekeepers are urging the government to raise honey prices or provide subsidies, expressing a desire to meet with President Sebastián Piñera.