South Africa: Violent protests in Cape Town Sep. 20-21

Event

Residents in the Ocean View community of Cape Town held two consecutive days of protests against recent gang violence, starting on Wednesday, September 20. Demonstrations continued on Thursday, September 21, and began peacefully before clashes broke out between protesters and police officers. Youths blocked the Kommetijie Road with burning tires and stones. Security forces fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the demonstrators, but protests continued throughout the day. Incidents of people throwing rocks at police vehicles were also reported throughout the area. Community leaders and police officials held discussions on Thursday, but tensions remain high. Further protests may occur in the coming days and additional violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

According to local media reports, the demonstrations broke out on the night of Tuesday, September 19, after one person was killed in a shooting. Residents claim that the police have failed to take action against rising criminal activity in the city despite holding multiple meetings with members of the community. At least three killings were reported within the past week. Some residents also claimed that gang members will kill anyone who reports crimes to the police and that nothing is being done to protect individuals that provide information.

Advice

Those present in Cape Town are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid all demonstrations as violence may flare up without warning, and adhere to the instructions of local authorities as well as those of their home governments. Maintain a high level of situational awareness at all times and take general precautions against criminal activity (avoid traveling alone after dark; drive with doors locked, windows up, and all personal possessions stored out of sight, etc.).