09 Jul 2021 | 02:59 PM UTC
eSwatini: Heightened security likely to remain in place through late July /update 5
Officials are likely to maintain military and police deployment nationwide in eSwatini through late July in response to civil unrest.
Event
As of July 9, officials are likely to maintain a heightened level of security nationwide, including in major urban centers, through late July in response to recent acts of civil unrest related to pro-democracy protests. Unrest and related violence has left approximately 60 people dead and hundreds more injured.
Military and police personnel remain widely deployed to quell the unrest. Authorities are maintaining a suspension on telecommunication and internet connectivity; service providers were reportedly ordered by the eSwatini Communications Commission on June 29 to shut down internet services. A nationwide 18:00-05:00 curfew also remains in place until further notice. Some businesses reportedly opened July 3; however, most of them remain closed as of July 9. Unconfirmed reports suggest that panic buying has resulted in some shortages of basic commodities.
Operations at King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) are ongoing as of July 9. Since July 6, Eswatini Airlink (4Z) flights between SHO and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) have been operational. Land border crossings with South Africa are open; however, recent protests on the South African side at the Oshoek and Ngwenya border crossings have caused some delays. Persons wishing to cross the border will be subject to COVID-19 checks and measures.
Officials may implement further restrictive measures, including road closures, random searches, restrictions on telecommunications, border controls, and tighter curfews. Looting, vandalism, and other acts of violence and transport and business disruptions are likely during any further demonstrations that may take place. Insecurity may result in shortages of some goods. Panic buying may also lead to shortages in essential goods.
Advice
Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Minimize movement in public areas in the coming days. Liaise with trusted contacts for updates on the security situation. Avoid any demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Do not travel through protester roadblocks. Consider deferring nonessential travel to the country until the situation stabilizes.
Resources
eSwatini Airlink (Facebook)
eSwatini Airlink
