17 Jan 2020 | 04:36 PM UTC
DRC: Police forcibly disperse opposition march in Kinshasa January 17 /update 2
At least one person wounded after police disperse opposition march in Kinshasa January 17; additional protests possible in the near term
Event
Security forces reportedly fired tear gas at anti-government demonstrators in Kinshasa on Friday, January 17. Protesters gathered in the capital despite a police ban to denounce the growing insecurity in the country amid a surge in militancy. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu attempted to join the rally but was escorted back to his home by police. At least one person was reportedly wounded in the clashes.
Further protests are possible in Kinshasa over the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.
Context
The opposition protest was called to denounce violence in eastern DRC and the country's economic and physical fragmentation.
Advice
Individuals in Kinshasa are advised to exercise caution and maintain a low profile at all times, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and obey any instructions issued by the local authorities.
