Martinique: Curfew, tight security announced in parts of Fort-de-France Sept. 18. Unrest likely to continue in multiple areas through late September /update 1

Officials have announced increased police presence and a curfew in several areas of Fort-de-France as of the evening of Sept. 18 due to ongoing violent protests. The curfew will be in effect nightly from 21:00-05:00 and will impact the port complex area and areas near the Dillon Hypermarket and La Jambette; the Sainte-Therese district will not be affected. Officials did not provide details on when the measures would be lifted.

Protests and roadblocks are likely to continue across several areas of Martinique through at least late September as demonstrators denounce the high cost of living. In the early hours of Sept. 17, at least two people were reportedly injured amid clashes between protesters and security forces, and significant traffic disruptions were reported in and around the Sainte-Therese area of Fort-de-France. Protesters have set vehicles on fire and blocked parts of Route Nationale 5 (RN5) for several hours. Gunfire and widespread infrastructure damage have been reported during the unrest. Roadblocks were also reported in parts of Riviere-Salee and Lamentin. While protests could occur throughout the territory, further unrest and associated disruptions are especially likely in and around Fort-de-France, Lamentin, and Riviere-Salee.

A heightened security presence will likely continue over the coming days, with police likely to attempt to forcibly disperse any protests by firing tear gas. Associated transport and business disruptions are probable. Protests may also disrupt traffic near Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport (FDF). Further violence is possible near gatherings.