South Africa: Service delivery protest ongoing in Diepsloot, northern Johannesburg, early June 20

Event

A service delivery protest is currently ongoing in Diepsloot, a lower-income area of northern Johannesburg, early June 20. The action is against the high crime rate in the area, and protesters are demanding action from authorities. Reports suggest the protest began overnight June 19-20, with acts of civil unrest and minor arson.

Heightened security is likely in the area in the coming hours. Security will likely deploy to quell the unrest; clashes between protesters and the police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence. Road travel disruptions and delays stemming from the blockade are possible along the N14 should the unrest spillover outside of Diepsloot.

Advice

Avoid the area. Make use of alternative routes if traveling in the area. Do not drive through protest roadblocks that may materialize. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected area.