03 May 2019 | 04:15 AM UTC
South Africa: Protests expected to continue in Durban May 3 /update 1
Municipal workers are expected to continue to protesting in Durban on May 3; US Consulate General closed as a precaution
Event
Striking municipal workers are expected to continue protesting in Durban (KwaZulu-Natal province) on Friday, May 3, following violent demonstrations the previous day. The US Consulate General in the city will be closed on Friday as a precaution. Significant traffic disruptions are expected around the City Hall, where thousands of workers blocked roads and clashed with security forces on Thursday, May 2. Further violence cannon be ruled out on Friday and a heightened security presence is expected in the area.
Context
Municipal workers held disruptive protests throughout the city on Thursday to demand a wage increase. Major roads were blocked by parked trucks as early as 08:00 (local time). Later in the day, protesters attempted to hold a sit-in outside City Hall.
Advice
Individuals in Durban are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, prepare for consequent traffic disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
