04 Jul 2021 | 09:08 AM UTC
eSwatini: Heightened security likely to remain in place through mid-July /update 4
Officials are likely to maintain military and police deployment nationwide in eSwatini through mid-July in response to civil unrest.
Event
Officials are likely to maintain a heightened level of security nationwide, including in major urban centers, through mid-July in response to recent acts of civil unrest, which have left at least 40 people dead, 150 injured, and caused widespread property damage. Military and police personnel remain widely deployed to quell the unrest. Authorities are maintaining a suspension on internet connectivity. Service providers were ordered by the eSwatini Communications Commission on 29 June to shut down online services. A nationwide curfew between 18:00-05:00, effective June 29, also remains in place until further notice.
Some businesses reportedly opened July 3; however, many remain closed. Unconfirmed reports suggest that panic buying has resulted in some shortages of basic commodities. Operations at King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) remain disrupted. Eswatini Airlink (4Z) flights between SHO and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) remain suspended until at least July 5. Land border crossings with South Africa are open; however, recent protests on the South African side at the Oshoek and Ngwenya 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
