Tajikistan: Violent protests continue in Khorog as of Nov. 27, following protests and clashes since Nov. 25

Event

Protests are continuing in Khorog, Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), as of Nov. 27. According to reports, thousands of people gathered outside the GBAO local government office. Unconfirmed reports indicate that police may have opened fire on protesters, wounding an unknown number of them, though this cannot be independently verified. Further details are unknown at present.

Protests first erupted Nov. 25 to denounce the death of a local man, allegedly at the hands of police following his arrest. During the Nov. 25 protests, some participants reportedly attempted to storm the GBAO local government building; police responded forcefully, reportedly killing at least one protester and wounding several more; in the ensuing violence five police officers were injured.

Further protests and associated violence is possible in the coming days. Authorities will likely deploy extra security forces to potential trouble spots in Khorog, including police stations, government buildings, and the city center. Security restrictions, such as road closures, could be imposed with little-to-no warning. Localized transport disruptions are likely near any violence that may occur. Bystanders would face a significant physical threat near any further clashes.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations. Maintain a low public profile. Heed the instructions of local security forces. If clashes break out,, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure nongovernmental building. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.