Peruvian workers strike nationwide

LIMA, July 14 (UPI) -- Peruvians took to the streets Wednesday in a general strike against President Alejandro Toledo's economic policies.

It is the first general strike in Peru since 1999 and comes during a time when the country is host to the Copa Americana soccer tournament. Tourists are reportedly stranded in several Peruvian cities including the capital, Lima.

Hundreds of thousands of Peruvians are striking for increased wages, according to El Comercio newspaper. Nine people have reportedly been arrested with no reports of violence. Authorities ordered nearly 100,000 law enforcement officers into cities to help control the crowds

Amid a flagging economy and rampant unemployment, Toledo's popularity has plummeted to around 7 percent.