Djibouti: Protests in support of imprisoned pilot continue in Djibouti City on June 22 /update 2

Event

On Monday, June 22, protests were reported in Djibouti City in support of imprisoned pilot Fouad Youssouf Ali. The pilot, who has been accused of treachery and faces life imprisonment, has been imprisoned for two months, and has allegedly been subjected to torture. While he has ended his hunger strike, he is reportedly due to be interrogated in the following days, which is likely to spark further protests. In addition, Deka Issa Douhour, a corporal in the republican guard, has been imprisoned since June 12 following her resignation over Ali's case.

The spontaneous protests have been compounded by widespread anger at corruption and poverty in Djibouti. Security forces have occasionally used aggressive tactics, including tear gas, to disperse anti-government demonstrations. Further protests in the near term are likely to result in crowd dispersal operations.

Advice

Individuals in Djibouti are advised to monitor developments, avoid demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence near protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.