(LIP-ir) -- The strike in Pucallpa began June 26 with a peaceful 12,000 person march through the town's streets. Citizens were protesting the Governments decision to drop the people's tax waiver, meaning they would have to start paying a 19% sales tax. The strike has continued for 8 days now and Pucallpa has been declared in a state of emergency. Police stations have been stoned, the main road leading in and out of town has been blocked and the airport has been taken over. Presently marches with over 60,000 people are taking place.