South Africa: Minibus taxi protest currently disrupting travel through Westdene area of Johannesburg, Sept. 19

Event

Minibus taxi operators are protesting at the intersection of Perth Road and Portland Avenue in Westdene, central Johannesburg, early Sept. 19. The protest is reportedly due to a dispute over public transport routes. Nearby roads have reportedly been affected; security services are reportedly on site working to clear the blockade.

Heightened security is likely in the area in the coming hours. Localized road travel disruptions are possible in western Johannesburg. Opportunistic looters may target stationary vehicles, including both private and cargo transport vehicles; altercations between demonstrators and drivers are possible. Violence between taxi operators, drivers, and security forces is possible if taxis ignore police orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible clashes. Consider avoiding impacted routes until the situation stabilizes. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Do not drive through roadblocks until officials have cleared them. Heed the instructions of authorities.