South Africa: Violent protests reported in the Tembisa area of Jonnahesburg, Aug. 1

Event

Violent protests are ongoing in the Tembisa area of Johannesburg, Aug. 1. Protesters reportedly blocked roads in the area with burning tires and rocks and set fire to the police station to denounce recurrent cuts to electricity in the area. A protester was reportedly killed during clashes with police officers. Additional security forces have been deployed to the area.

Heightened security is likely in the vicinity for the duration of the protest. The protest action and security force response, including road closures, will likely result in ground travel and business operation disruptions in the coming hours. Further clashes between demonstrators and police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse. There is an incidental threat to bystanders. Further protests are likely in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution and to mitigate likely ground travel delays. Plan for road travel delays in and near the protest area. Heed instructions from the security forces. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a nongovernmental building.