Reunion: Further unrest is possible territorywide through mid-July /update 1

Event

Further unrest is possible across Reunion through mid-July. Riots, including arson and looting, erupted overnight on June 29/30 in several areas across the island in response to recent developments in France. Episodes of unrest have persisted each night, including overnight July 2/3. Affected locations include Saint-Andre, Saint-Louis, Sainte-Marie, Saint-Pierre, La Possession, Le Tampon, Le Port, and Saint-Pierre, among other possible areas. Saint-Denis was particularly affected. Officials have announced that the sale of fireworks and other pyrotechnic objects is prohibited. Carrying such items or fuel, weapons, and other combustible or corrosive products, is also prohibited. These measures applied 16:00 June 30-08:00 July 3, and may be extended.

In the coming days, officials will likely maintain a heightened security posture across major urban centers, notably Saint-Denis. Localized travel delays are likely near all gatherings. Officials may impose additional measures, such as localized curfews, the suspension of public transport services, and bans on gatherings.

Context

On June 27, riots began in Nanterre, west of Paris, after a police officer shot and killed a 17-year-old after he allegedly refused to comply with unspecified orders. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Nanterre and in other areas of France since then; various acts of arson and vandalism have occurred. Events have largely occurred at night.

Advice

Limit nonessential travel overnight. Keep away from all demonstrations, as well as any areas where security personnel are deploying. Leave the area at the first sign of a security disturbance; if unable to do so, seek shelter in a secure non-governmental building until it is safe to depart. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities.