DRC, Zambia: Traffic suspended at the Kasumbalesa border crossing due to protest, Oct. 5

Event

A protest is ongoing on the Zambia side of the Kasumbalesa border crossing between Zambia and DRC, Oct. 5, prompting the closure of the border post. Zambian truck drivers are reportedly protesting the death of one of their colleagues in the DRC. Protesters reportedly harassed DRC residents crossing the border; they in turn retaliated by throwing stones. Security forces have deployed to the area and used tear gas to disperse protesters. It remains unclear when the border crossing point will reopen to traffic.

Heightened security is likely in the area in the coming hours. The protest action and security force response will result in ground travel and business operation disruptions in the coming hours. Further clashes between demonstrators and police are possible. There is an incidental threat to bystanders should any violence occur.

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. Allow for additional transit time and disruptions to shipments at the border crossing.