29 Feb 2024 | 10:23 AM UTC
Mayotte: Increased security remains likely territorywide after activists remove roadblocks, Feb. 29 /update 5
Increased security likely across Mayotte through at least late March despite the lifting of roadblocks by activists Feb. 29.
On Feb. 29, activists denouncing alleged insecurity and illegal immigration have removed roadblocks in several areas of Mayotte, implemented since January. Representatives of the civil society group “Forces Vives” took the decision following a meeting on Feb. 28. This follows recent government announcements. On Feb. 11, the interior minister announced his government would table a constitutional reform no longer granting automatic citizenship to children born on the island to non-French nationals. Officials will also implement other measures to prevent illegal immigration, such as increased means to stop boats from the Comoros from docking in Mayotte, among other measures. The decision comes amid rising reports of gang violence, increased tensions between locals and immigrants from neighboring islands, and the Wambushu security operation ongoing since April 2023.
The curfew applying to the Bandrele and the Nyambadao localities based in the Bandrele Municipality was lifted on Feb. 19, while the A 19:00-05:00 curfew for minors (below 18 years of age) in Dembeni Municipality expires Feb. 29. Other localities may take similar measures in the near term after episodes of violence, generally involving youth.
While roadblocks have been removed, officials will likely maintain an increased security presence across the island through at least late March amid operations against illegal immigration. Localized transport disruptions are likely in areas subject to police activity. Protests in favor or against the reform are likely in Mayotte over the coming weeks, particularly outside government buildings, such as the Prefecture of Mayotte building in Mamoudzou. Further violence involving protests and counter-protests, or deadly clashes between rival gangs, as well as Illegal roadblocks and attacks targeting commuters, remain possible.
Plan for increased security and related disruptions across Mayotte. Avoid any demonstrations that materialize; if crowds form or violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure due to possible illegal roadblocks. Abide by curfew times. Heed instructions from authorities.
In recent years, local officials and civil society groups have increasingly criticized recurrent insecurity, including assaults against students and public transportation, illegal roadblocks, and murders, among other crimes - attributed in part to illegal immigration. Residents have also complained about a lack of service delivery, including drinking water and electricity shortages, among other issues.
