South Africa: Protests continue near Vredenburg November 14

Event

Tensions remain high between the police and residents around Vredenburg (West Cape province) as of Wednesday, November 14, following violent protests during the previous day. Demonstrators and police officers clashed near Vredenburg and the informal Ongegund settlement on Tuesday, November 13, during a protest over the lack of public utility services. Main roads, including the R45 highway, were blocked by protesters on Tuesday. Unrest continued into Wednesday after the police arrested 38 people on charges of public violence. As of November 14, the roads have reopened, but further demonstrations and traffic disruptions are possible in the coming days.

Context

Residents around Vredenburg launched the demonstration on November 13 to demand the government improve access to electricity and water in the settlements. The protesters are also calling for an increase in housing in the area.

Advice

Individuals in the greater Vredenburg area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate localized transportation disruptions, and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.