LUANDA, July 30 (Xinhua) -- Angolan Interior Minister Manuel Homem confirmed on Wednesday that the death toll has risen to 22 after a protest over fuel prices broke out on Monday in Luanda Province.
According to Homem, the chaos has since spread to other provinces, such as Huambo, Benguela, and Huila. Additionally, 197 people were injured, 66 shops were damaged, and 1,214 individuals were arrested for vandalism and looting.
The minister said the overall public security situation in Angola has stabilized. In Luanda, the situation has returned to normal, with public transportation services back to their regular operations.
"We will remain steadfast, committed to ensuring that public security in our country will not undergo changes that would make social life unfeasible for all of us," said the minister.
He emphasized that while demonstrations are legally protected, they must not escalate into violent acts and unrest.
The National Association of Taxi Drivers of Angola initiated a three-day strike on Monday, in protest against rising fuel prices and fare adjustments.
The strike brought traffic to a standstill in several parts of Luanda and led to road blockages. According to a statement released by the Luanda provincial government, criminal elements took advantage of the strike to attack passing vehicles and loot shops.
