Tunisia: Protesters clash with police in Tataouine on June 21 following arrest of activist /update 2

Event

On Sunday, June 21, protesters clashed with police in Tataouine following the arrest of a local activist. Protests have been taking place since late May in the southern city over an unfulfilled government promise from 2017 to create jobs in the energy industry. The activist, who is reportedly the spokesman for the protesters, was arrested on the night of Saturday, June 20. Demonstrators responded by setting fire to tires and throwing stones at security forces, demanding his release. Police attempted to disperse the protest with tear gas. The larger protest is ongoing, with a protest camp set up near the El Kamour pumping station, with individuals blocking roads to stop tankers from entering the facility.

Advice

Individuals in Tataouine province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate disruptions to port operations, and to avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution.