Côte d'Ivoire: Residents clash with police in Bloléquin (west) Feb. 17

Event

Clashes between local residents and police forces erupted on Saturday, February 17, in Bloléquin (west). The clashes were sparked when a policeman killed a moto-taxi driver at a gendarme checkpoint after the driver allegedly failed to obey orders; however, local sources state that the policeman was trying to extort money from the driver. In retaliation, local residents erected barricades on nearby streets and ransacked police buildings.

Extra security forces have been deployed to the area and tensions have since eased. However, further clashes are possible in the coming weeks.

An investigation into the February 17 incident is ongoing.

Context

Clashes at security checkpoints can occur throughout the country. In November 2017, deadly clashes erupted in Bouna (northeast) when security forces killed two civilians at a gendarme checkpoint.

Advice

Those present in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly in Bloléquin, are advised to keep abreast of the situation.