South Africa: Anti-police brutality protests scheduled to occur in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Cape Town on June 8

Event

The US Consulate General Johannesburg has issued an alert regarding demonstrations that will take place in front of US embassy and consulate buildings on Monday, June 8, in response to the ongoing civil unrest in the United States. The protests, which will reportedly begin at 09:00 (local time), are to be held in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.

A heightened security presence and localized travel disruptions are expected to occur in the vicinity of the protests.

Context

George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on May 25. The four arresting police officers were subsequently fired, and one has since been charged with murder. Black Lives Matter (BLM) supporters gathered on May 26 to denounce the death and actions of the police officers. Clashes ensued between protesters and riot police; with demonstrators throwing bricks and projectiles at police and police property, and police responding with tear gas and rubber bullets as they attempted to disperse the crowds. Protests have since spread to a number of cities across the US.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.