Sierra Leone: Further protests over fuel costs possible in Freetown through at least mid-April

Event

Further protests denouncing fuel scarcity and related rising prices are possible in Freetown through at least mid-April. Commercial drivers embarked on a strike in the capital March 28 and gathered at several locations to block roads, including in the Lumley area. Police fired tear gas to disperse protesters. There were no casualties reported.

Security forces will likely deploy to any protest site that materializes. Should protests occur, localized traffic disruptions are likely, and the potential for clashes with security forces or angry commuters is elevated.

Advice

Avoid all protests and plan accordingly for ground travel disruptions. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Depart the area at the first sign of a confrontation.