South Africa: Civil unrest reported across KwaZulu-Natal Province, early July 10

Event

Protests, road blockages, and attacks targeting transport vehicles were reported across KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, overnight July 9-10. The violence is likely linked to the ongoing incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma. Some incidents have been included below.

• Overnight attacks on transport vehicles between Nottingham Road and Mooi River along the N3 highway. Looting of trucks and retail outlets was also reported. N3 highway at the Mooi River Toll remains closed late morning July 10. Protests ongoing in the area.

• Roadblock at the Weenen Junction along the R103 route in Estcourt.

• Roadblock along the N2 highway between the Gingindlovu and Amatikulu exits. Protest in the nearby Dokodweni area.

• Transport vehicles attacked overnight along the N2 highway between Hluhluwe and Mtubatuba.

• Protests in the Umgababa and Amanzimtoti areas south of Durban.

• Protest at the Tollgate Bridge along the N3 in the Durban area.

Authorities are likely to deploy security and traffic management personnel to areas where protests are occurring. Ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and the police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or if protests escalate. Protesters may also engage in acts of public violence, including looting.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Liaise with trusted contacts for further information on planned and actual protest areas. Consider alternative routes around impact areas. Plan for disruptions to both general travel and the transport of freight. Reconfirm the status of all road routes in the coming days before travel. Heed the directives of the local authorities. Reconfirm all ground public transport services that operate in or through the province before travel.