06 Sep 2019 | 02:15 PM UTC
DRC: Police disperse violent protest in Kinshasa September 6 /update 2
Police disperse a violent protest in Kinshasa September 6; further protests likely over the near term
Event
Police reportedly used tear gas to disperse protests in Kinshasa after they turned violent on Friday, September 6. The protests were in response to recent xenophobic violence in South Africa. Local media sources report that at least 12 protesters were arrested after attempting to attack the Embassy of South Africa and several South African-owned businesses in the Limete, Gombe, and Kintambo municipalities in Kinshasa. This follows a demonstration in Lubumbashi on Thursday, September 5, where 16 people were arrested after reportedly vandalizing the South African consulate and various South African businesses in the city.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near the Embassy of South Africa and in the vicinity of any protest. Further protests are likely over the coming days and clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Individuals in Kinshasa are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
