12 Apr 2019 | 08:18 PM UTC
South Africa: One found dead as Western Cape protests continue April 12 /update 1
Protests continue in Somerset West and Khayelitsha (Western Cape province) as of April 12 after protester found dead; similar demonstrations possible in affected areas over the coming hours and days
Event
Protests denouncing land reform and a lack of basic services continued near the Somerset West and Khayelitsha areas of Cape Town (Western Cape province) through midday on Friday, April 12. The demonstrations come after the body of one protester who was shot and killed by unidentified suspects was found in Lwandle early on Friday morning. A heavy police presence remains in place in Somerset West, Khayelitsha, Blackheath, and Mfuleni, although demonstrations have reportedly subsided as of Friday evening.
Similar demonstrations are possible in the affected areas over the coming hours and days. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
Related demonstrations have taken place in Western Cape province in recent days. Notably, on April 11, several hundred protesters erected roadblocks - forcing a partial shutdown of the N2 highway between Somerset West and Sir Lowry's Pass - and engaged in violent demonstrations in Khayelitsha. Looting and clashes with security forces also took place in Nomzamo between the evening hours of April 10 into the morning of April 11.
Advice
Individuals in Western Cape province are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate traffic disruptions (including due to road closures and increased congestion), avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
