Djibouti: Protests reported in Djibouti city following alleged torture of pilot in custody June 8

Event

On Monday, June 8, protests were reported in the city of Djibouti, in support of a detained air force pilot who has allegedly been subject to torture while in custody. Protests have been occurring since a video emerged last week reportedly depicting the pilot being held in the toilet of a jail. The pilot's lawyer has stated that the he had shown signs of torture during his last visit, and that 200 people, including the pilot's family, have been arrested in recent days. Furthermore, Reporters Sans Frontieres announced on Monday that several journalists covering the case had also been arrested.

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 in Djibouti, and 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.