05 Apr 2019 | 10:23 AM UTC
South Africa: Ongoing protest in Alexandra (Johannesburg) April 5 /update 2
Residents in the Alexandra area of Johannesburg are protesting as of April 5; heightened security measures and transportation disruptions reported
Event
Residents in Alexandra (Johannesburg) launched another protest on the morning (local time) of Friday, April 5, with demonstrators blocking several roads leading into the area with burning tyres. Localized disruptions, including transportation disruptions and congestion on alternative routes is likely in the coming hours. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Further similar protests are likely in the coming days.
Context
Protests erupted in Alexandra on April 3, with demonstrators blocking roads in Marlboro and Alexandra near Lenin Drive and Far East Bank Street.
Alexandra residents called for a total shutdown of the area to protest against a perceived lack of response from the police and city officials to prevent illegal squatters from moving into the township. Particularly, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and power officials are accused of not disconnecting power and water to the illegal structures. Residents are also claiming that the local government has failed to solve roadway, housing, and other basic issues.
Advice
Individuals in Johannesburg are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
