Guinea: Two injured by gunshots during protests in Sangaredi Nov. 11 /update 1

Event

Two young men were reportedly injured by gunfire during continuing protests held on Saturday, November 11 in Sangaredi (west), when clashes erupted between protesters and police. Hundreds of people protested in the mining town overnight on November 9-10 to denounce ongoing regular power cuts; demonstrations continued into Saturday. Protesters reportedly looted and vandalized several buildings throughout the town, set tires on fire to block roads, and set fire to police stations. Several people were reportedly injured. Tensions in the town remain high and further protests and associated violence are likely over coming days.

Context

This most recent demonstration comes two months after deadly protests resulted in the temporary suspension of mining activities in Boké and Kamsar in September.

Western towns with major bauxite repositories such as Sangaredi have seen frequent waves of violent protests and riots relating to the perceived failure of mining companies to address local socioeconomic grievances and poor living standards.

Guinea is Africa's top producer of bauxite and the country possesses about a third of the world's bauxite reserves.

Advice

Individuals in mining areas, including Sangaredi, are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to monitor the situation closely.