US: Curfews declared in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area, Minnesota, during the night of April 13-14 following violent protests /update 5

Event

The municipalities of Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Columbia Heights, Crystal, New Hope, and Robbinsdale in Minnesota have all announced curfews beginning 22:00 April 13 and ending 06:00 April 14 following recent protests in the area. The protests erupted April 11 in reaction to an incident in which a police officer fatally shot a man in the town of Brooklyn Center; demonstrations have been particularly large near the headquarters of the Brooklyn Center Police Department at 6645 North Humboldt Avenue, as well as near the scene of the shooting at the corner of 63rd North and Lee North avenues. Several businesses were looted in other parts of the city, leading authorities to deploy units of the National Guard and the Minnesota State Police across the area.

Activists plan to gather again near the headquarters of the Brooklyn Center Police Department beginning at 17:00 April 13. Additional, unannounced demonstrations may occur throughout the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area. Authorities will almost certainly maintain an elevated security posture in the affected area, as well as near commercial buildings and malls. Clashes between protesters and authorities are possible, especially if police attempt to disperse crowds forcibly or if protesters refuse to obey the curfews. Associated transport and business disruptions are likely.

Additionally, a large security operation has been ongoing in Minneapolis due to the trial of Derek Chauvin, a former city police officer facing murder charges in the 2020 killing of George Floyd. Floyd's death led to major protests in the city and throughout the US, prompting authorities to impose numerous measures, anticipating demonstrations at the end of the trial.

Advice

If operating in the greater Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, exercise increased caution until the situation becomes clear. Avoid any protests that may materialize due to the potential for clashes; keep away from any areas where large numbers of security personnel appear to be deploying. Reconfirm road conditions and seek alternative routes to circumvent any demonstrations. Carry identification documents and remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement personnel. Heed instructions of the authorities.