23 Aug 2024 | 03:39 PM UTC
South Africa: Protesters disrupting traffic along M5 in southern Cape Town, Aug. 23 /update 1
Protesters resume action along M5 in Cape Town, South Africa, Aug. 23. Travel disruptions reported around Retreat, Grassy Park areas.
An ongoing protest is causing disruptions along the M5/Prince George Drive near Retreat in southern Cape Town as of late Aug. 23. The protest is reportedly located at the M5's intersection with Military Road in Retreat; the M5 is inaccessible between Grassy Park's 5th Avenue and Muizenberg's Sunrise Circle. Authorities have asked travelers to make use of alternative routes. The motive for the protest is unclear. Prior to the current unrest, another demonstration began at the same location early Aug. 22 before resuming the same evening.
Increased security is likely in the affected area over the coming hours. Further transport disruptions are likely in the coming hours, especially along the nearby M3/M4 highways. Further protests remain possible in the coming days. Clashes between protesters and the police may occur if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence.
Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Do not attempt to drive through demonstrator roadblocks; wait for police to clear them before proceeding. Heed the directives of the local authorities and monitor local media for updates as protests can occur on short notice. Consider alternative routes around the impact areas. Reconfirm the status of routes in the hours preceding travel. Reconfirm public transport routes and schedules for the affected areas.
