Zambia: Riots reported in Nakonde over lockdown measures May 20

Event

Riots broke out in Nakonde (Muchinga province) on Wednesday, May 20, over lockdown measures in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Police reportedly opened fire with live ammunition in an attempt to disperse the crowd, injuring one. The Nakonde border post between Zambia and Tanzania was reopened on Friday, May 15, following a four-day closure after a surge in COVID-19 cases in the town.

Further civil unrest is possible in Nakonde over the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Nakonde are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and abide by all instructions issued by local authorities.