22 Sep 2017 | 09:37 AM UTC
Guinea: Boké protests continue September 15 /update 1
Protests in mining town of Boké continue September 15; at least two deaths reported
Event
Roads in Boké remain partially blocked on Friday, September 15, amid continued protests over frequent electricity cuts in the city. Reports say a 17-year-old boy was killed on Thursday, September 14, during clashes with police. Additionally, one person was killed and several others injured after security forces opened fire to disperse protesters on Wednesday, September 13. Tensions in the city remain high and similar violence could continue over the coming days and weeks.
Context
The southwestern mining city, with major bauxite repositories, has seen frequent waves of violent protests and riots relating to the perceived failure of mining companies to address local socioeconomic grievances over poor living standards.
Mining activity has fueled tensions in cities such as Boké, where much of the population remains poor and unemployed despite Guinea's mineral assets. Guinea is Africa's top producer of bauxite and the country possesses about one-third of the world's bauxite reserves. Boké is home to mining companies such as Société Minière de Boké (SMB) and Compagnie Bauxite de Guinée (CBG).
Advice
Individuals in Boké are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to closely monitor the situation.
On a separate note, individuals throughout Guinea are advised to remain vigilant due to high crime rates, particularly in Conakry.
