11 Oct 2023 | 10:35 AM UTC
Gabon: Heightened security, including curfew, remains in place as of mid-October /update 7
As of Oct. 11, heightened security measures, including 00:01-05:00 curfew, remain in place across Gabon.
Event
Heightened security measures remain in place nationwide as of Oct. 11. A curfew implemented by the Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI) is in place 00:01-05:00 nationwide until further notice. Authorities have previously warned that individuals will be detained through the end of the curfew if they do not abide by the measure.
Increased measures are likely to persist in major cities and at all ports of entry and exit through at least late October, despite the reopening of air, land, and sea borders on Sept. 2. Security measures may include roadblocks, checkpoints, and searches of vehicles and pedestrians. Further peaceful rallies in support of the coup may occur, including in Libreville, Port-Gentil, and Franceville. Opponents of the coup may also stage protests. Any such gatherings will likely be met with a security force deployment; the potential for clashes is elevated at such events.
Context
The CTRI, under the leadership of Brice Oligui Nguema, assumed control of the country on Aug. 30. It canceled the Aug. 26 election and placed former President Ali Bongo Odimba under house arrest. The move followed the release of election results which proclaimed Bongo as the winner with 64 percent of the vote. Ahead of the release of the results, the main opposition candidate, Albert Ondo Ossa, had accused the regime of election fraud. The period since the coup has been relatively peaceful. Various governments have issued travel advisories for its nationals in Gabon in the wake of the coup.
Advice
Exercise caution if operating in Gabon. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Avoid government buildings, security installations, and large concentrations of police and soldiers. Ensure contingency plans are reviewed and updated. Monitor developments closely with a trusted contact. Plan for possible disruptions at border crossing points. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests.
