11 Mar 2022 | 03:07 PM UTC
Mauritania: Further protests possible following Nouakchott sit-in March 8
Further protests possible after March 8 sit-in in Nouakchott over disappearances of Mauritanians near border with Mali. Avoid protests.
Event
Further demonstrations are possible through the end of March after protesters gathered in front of the Presidential Palace in Nouakchott March 8. The action was to protest the reported disappearance of Mauritanian citizens near the border with Mali in recent weeks. Further demonstrations may again occur in front of the Presidential Palace or other government offices, including the Interior Ministry.
Should further protests materialize, heightened security and transportation disruptions are likely. Clashes between protesters and security forces are unlikely but cannot be ruled out.
Context
Mauritanian authorities have lodged complaints against the Malian army in recent days, accusing it of the forced disappearances of at least 15 of its citizens near the two countrie's shared borders. The growing diplomatic row has led to Malian authorities to undertake an investigation into the matter.
Advice
Avoid all large crowds as a precaution. Heed the advice of security officials. Monitor local media for news on potential demonstrations.
