Martinique: Officials ban demonstrations in certain areas until Sept. 23. Curfew measures remain in effect. /update 2

Officials in Martinique have banned protests in four municipalities until at least 08:00 on Sept. 23. An order from the prefect of Martinique bans protests, demonstrations, and gatherings on public and private roads which are open to the public in the municipalities of Fort-de-France, Le Lamentin, Ducos, and Le Robert. The official order can be accessed here. The announcement comes after multiple incidents of violent unrest in recent days.

A 21:00-05:00 nightly curfew remains in effect in several areas of Fort-de-France and Le Lamentin until Sept. 23. The measure affects the port complex and areas near the Dillon Hypermarket and La Jambette; the Sainte-Therese area is not affected. Restrictions on the sale of fuel and fireworks are also in place.

Despite these measures, protests and roadblocks may continue across several areas of Martinique through at least late September as demonstrators denounce the high cost of living. In recent gatherings, multiple people were injured amid clashes between protesters and security forces. On multiple occasions, protesters have regularly blocked key routes across Martinique with burning debris, including parts of the Route Nationale 5 (RN5). Gunfire, looting, and arson attacks have been reported at several gatherings.

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. The likelihood of clashes will be higher near any protests that materialize through at least Sept. 23 as officials enforce the current security measures. Associated transport and business disruptions are probable. Protests may also disrupt traffic near Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport (FDF).