South Africa: Heightened security for court hearings in Johannesburg, July 21 and 23 /update 1

Event

Officials will deploy security personnel and close roads around the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court in the Ferreira's Dorp area of Johannesburg on July 21 and 23. The measures will coincide with the bail applications of approximately 200 persons arrested during recent civil unrest and looting. Officials have indicated that roads will be closed from 07:00-16:00 on each impacted day. The Johannesburg Metro Police Department has also indicated that they expect protesters to gather at the court in support of the accused. A related court hearing on July 20 ended without incident and no protests were reported.

Should protests occur, the potential for clashes between demonstrators and the security forces exists. Road closures are likely to increase congestion on alternative routes in the area.

Advice

Exercise caution in Ferreira's Dorp July 21 and 23. Heed the instructions of the security forces. Avoid all protests. Plan for road travel delays.