South Africa: Police use teargas to disperse protesters in Cape Town July 3 /update 2

Event

Police reportedly used stun grenades, rubber bullets, and teargas to disperse approximately 100 protesters on Monday, July 3, as riots continue for the third consecutive day in Hout Bay. One person was reportedly shot and injured, although it is unclear who is responsible for the shooting. Protesters set fire to cars, blocked roads, and damaged property, in an attempt to pressure the municipal government to provide Hout Bay residents with adequate housing.

Cape Town officials were forced to close Victoria Road and Main Road early on Monday morning, however Victoria Road has now been reopened. Traffic has been diverted from Main Road to Disa River Road and Down Valley Road. Heavy traffic disruptions around Hout Bay are to be expected. Further protests and potential violence cannot be ruled out in the coming days.

Context

Residents of Imizamo Yethu who were displaced by a massive fire earlier in 2017 are protesting a lack of housing and residential services at their informal settlement in Hout Bay. Protesters claim they were promised improved housing conditions within three months of the fire.

Advice

Those present in Cape Town are advised to avoid the vicinity of the protests in Hout Bay until the situation has been fully resolved. Monitor developments to the situation and anticipate transportation disruptions in the area.