01 Mar 2018 | 08:32 PM UTC
Mayotte: Roadblocks and protests continue March 1 /update 1
Roadblocks and protests disrupt transportation throughout Mayotte on March 1 amid ongoing general strike to denounce insecurity; avoid all protests
Event
On Thursday, March 1, an estimated 300 protestors erected roadblocks on major roadways throughout Mayotte to denounce growing insecurity on the Island. Several demonstrations were also reported in Mamoudzou, as part of a general strike that has been ongoing for two weeks.
An increased security presence is expected to be deployed throughout the island, both in response to the strike and to broader security concerns. Outbreaks of violence during demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
Context
Multiple protests have broken out in Mayotte since February 20 to denounce the increased influx of Comorian migrants to the islands - as well as related security concerns - and to demand the resignation of the prefect. Schools throughout the island have been closed for the past month.
The department's population is thought to be approximately 43 percent undocumented migrants - a situation which has incited the local population to violence against immigrants, who are often blamed for the increasing insecurity in the department.
Advice
Individuals in Mayotte are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to keep abreast of the situation.
