South Africa: Increased security in Johannesburg ahead of international summit in Sandton, Aug. 20-26 /update 2

Event

Authorities have announced increased security ahead of and during the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit hosted in Johannesburg, Aug. 20-26. Leaders will gather at the Sandton Convention Center in northern Johannesburg Aug. 22-24, and the Midrand Gallagher Estate Aug. 23. Authorities will deploy heightened security measures in the city to facilitate the summit.

The Civil Aviation Authority has announced the closure of the airspace within 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) and 5,000 feet (1.5 km) above sea level to the conference venue from 08:00 Aug. 20-23:59 Aug. 24. The following roads in Sandton will be closed from Aug. 20-26:

• Maude Street: one-way traffic from 5th Street to West Street.

• West Street: lanes closest to the Convention Center will be closed; the lanes furthest away will be open for traffic.

• Alice Lane: lanes closest to the Convention Center will be closed; the lanes furthest away will be open for traffic.

• Fifth Street: lanes closest to the Convention Center will be closed; the lanes furthest away will be open for traffic.

The following roads in Midrand will be closed 15:00-23:59 Aug. 23:

• Gallagher Avenue

• Richards Drive

• Johnnic Street

• Lupton Street

• Pretoria Main Road

Localized traffic disruptions and movement restrictions are likely near the summit venue. Authorities will likely implement a safety zone around the airport, central hotels, and government institutions. Heightened security presence is almost certain in the affected areas. Measures such as checkpoints and identity and vehicle checks are possible. Protests near the summit venue are possible.

Advice

Allow additional time to reach destinations in Sandton during the aforementioned period. Plan for increased security checks at the airport, government buildings, and public venues. Use alternative routes to avoid road closures and security-related disruptions. Verify appointments, as business closures could occur with little notice.