Police use forceful measures to disperse protesters in Brackenfell (Western Cape) November 20

Event

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades, and water cannon in attempts to disperse protesters gathered in Cape Town's Brackenfell (Western Cape) on Friday, November 20. The anti-racism demonstration taking place outside of Brackenfell High School was called for by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) opposition party. Brackenfell High School was accused of being racist after a video of an all-white matriculation party appeared online. Local authorities reportedly granted the party a permit allowing 100 members to join the demonstration only due to current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) measures on public gatherings imposed in South Africa. Police are preventing participants from reaching the school due to the large number of protesters who have gathered. Reports indicate that there is an estimated 400 demonstrators congregated in Brackenfell; demonstrators may attempt to march through the town center and business district.  

A heightened security presence should be anticipated in the near term. Localized disruptions to transportation and business services should also be expected in the area. Clashes between security forces and protesters are possible.

Advice

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