Tajikistan: Up to nine killed and dozens detained during security operation in Rushan district, GBAO, May 18

Event

Increased security measures will likely persist in Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) in the coming days amid a major security operation that began May 17 in response to anti-government protests in the region since May 16. The Interior Ministry reports that at least eight suspected members of an armed criminal group have been killed and 11 others wounded in the Rushan District of Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) on May 18. However, reports emerging from the district conflict with the official government line. According to the ministry, around 200 armed members of an unspecified criminal group blocked the Dushanbe-Khorog Highway, a border crossing, and several points within the town of Rushan itself, prompting security forces to intervene. Conversely, some media organizations state that witnesses allege groups of unarmed young men gathered to prevent military vehicles from reaching Khorog. Additionally, protests are reportedly ongoing in Khorog itself; security forces are deployed to the city and have erected multiple checkpoints.

Internet and telecommunication services with at least Rushan and Khorog, but likely the wider GBAO, have been disconnected since the security operation began late May 17. Further disruptions to the internet and telecommunications are likely over the short term, especially during periods of elevated protest activity and associated clashes between activists and security forces.

Increased security measures, including military patrols and checkpoints, will likely persist in Rushan, Khorog, and other areas in GBAO in the coming days. Further protests and associated violence are possible. Authorities will likely deploy extra security forces to potential trouble spots in Rushan and Khorog, including police stations, border crossings, government buildings, and central areas. 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.

Context

Authorities launched what they are referring to as an anti-terrorist operation in the wake of ongoing anti-government protests in Khorog that began May 16. The protesters demand the resignation of the regional governor and the mayor of Khorog for failing to investigate the November 2021 death of an activist while in police custody. Related protests have been dispersed with tear gas and rubber bullets.

Given that the government maintains that protesters are members of armed criminal groups, the ongoing crackdown will likely continue under the guise of an anti-terrorism operation.

Advice

Exercise heightened vigilance and maintain a low public profile if operating in GBAO. Heed the instructions of local security forces; carry relevant identification documents, and remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security forces. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of a confrontation. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Avoid all demonstrations.