South Africa: Student protest ongoing in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province, April 8

Event

Student protests are ongoing at the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Durban, April 8. Students are protesting against historical debt, financial exclusion, fees, and registration costs. Initial reports have indicated a large security force contingent has deployed to the university campus. Several roads around the campus have also reportedly been closed; it is unclear if this includes Griffiths Mxenge Highway. Similar protests occurred April 7 at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), resulting in police firing tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Further protests cannot be discounted in the coming days, and security forces may take similar actions if demonstrations take place. Recent student protests in Johannesburg and Cape Town degenerated into violent unrest and one fatality; similar violence is possible in any further demonstrations. Transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all further incidents.

Advice

Avoid the MUT April 8. If operating in the area and violence breaks out, seek shelter in a secure, non-governmental building immediately. Monitor for updates on possible incidents in the coming days. Avoid all protests as a standard precaution.