15 Sep 2023 | 10:37 AM UTC
South Africa: Ongoing service delivery protest in Diepsloot, northern Johannesburg, Sept. 15
Residents of Diepsloot are protesting against increased crime levels in Johannesburg, South Africa, Sept. 15. Localized disruptions likely.
Event
Residents of the Diepsloot area of northern Johannesburg are currently marching towards Sarafina Park, an area in Diepsloot, to deliver a memorandum of demands to the municipal government and police services, Sept. 15. They are protesting against a spate of violence affecting their area, the presence of undocumented migrants, and the lack of policing. This follows previous action in late June and early July, during which residents engaged in acts of civil unrest and minor arson affecting the N14 highway.
Heightened security is likely in the area in the coming hours. Road travel disruptions and delays stemming from the protest are likely; the protests could affect the nearby N14 highway. Clashes between protesters and the police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence.
Context
Diepsloot is a low-income area that has historically suffered from elevated levels of crime. Protests over this issue and over service delivery issues are a regular occurrence.
Advice
Avoid the protest. Make use of alternative routes if traveling in the area. Do not drive through protester roadblocks that may materialize. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected area.
