30 Jan 2019 | 05:06 PM UTC
Haiti: Demonstrators block roads in Centre department January 30
Demonstrators block roads, protest lack of electricity in Centre department January 30; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions to be expected in affected areas
Event
Demonstrators reportedly blocked roads in Mirebalais (Centre department), including on Route Nationale 3, as of Wednesday morning (local time), January 30, to protest a lack of electricity in the municipality. Local sources indicate police attempted to clear the roadblocks but were attacked by protesters. Additional roadblocks were reported in Lascahobas (Centre department) on Wednesday morning. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the affected areas over the coming hours and days.
Context
Demonstrations over the lack of electricity have been ongoing since January 25 in Mirebalais, which has disrupted road travel between Port-au-Prince and Hinche.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments (e.g. travel restrictions).
