30 Mar 2018 | 07:10 AM UTC
Lesotho: Maseru Bridge border closure due to protest April 2
Taxi drivers in Lesotho to stage protest at Maseru Bridge border crossing with South Africa on April 2, leading to temporary border closure
Event
Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) officials have confirmed that the Maseru Bridge border crossing with South Africa (near Ladybrand) will be closed on Monday, April 2, due to a protest by local taxi drivers. The drivers reportedly will park their vehicles across the bridge, rendering entry or exit impossible for the duration of the protest. An additional protest march has been scheduled for 09:00 (local time) on Monday, and will take place at Setsoto Stadium in Maseru and its surrounding streets.
While the protests are intended to be peaceful, clashes between demonstrators and security personnel cannot be ruled out. Delays at other border crossings are possible throughout the day.
Context
The protest stems from reports that South African border officials have refused entry to Lesotho taxi drivers carrying passengers or goods.
Advice
Individuals in Lesotho are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution and to use Peka Bridge or Van Rooyen Gate as alternative border crossings for the duration of the protest.
