South Africa: Riots block major roads near Cape Town July 2

Event

Riots again broke out in Hout Bay on Sunday, July 2, with protesters blocking Victoria Road (M6) for the second consecutive day, forcing Cape Town officials to suspend all bus services to the area. Protesters both days have reportedly burned debris on roadways, destroyed temporary structures, and thrown rocks at police deployed to monitor the area. Traffic officials have subsequently closed Victoria Road and Chapman's Peak Drive until the situation is resolved. Further protests and potential violence are likely 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 service delivery at their informal settlement in Hout Bay.

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.