Luanda, Angola – July 30, 2025 –
Police authorities in Angola have confirmed that four people have been killed and over 500 arrested following a wave of violent protests in the capital city, Luanda.
The unrest erupted after a three-day strike launched by taxi drivers spiraled into one of the most intense and disruptive protest movements Angola has witnessed in recent years. Initially organized in opposition to a sharp rise in fuel prices, the demonstrations quickly expanded as thousands took to the streets in anger.
On Tuesday, major roads were barricaded, businesses were ransacked, and several vehicles were vandalized, leading to fierce confrontations between protesters and security forces. The violent scenes have sent shockwaves across the country.
The strike was organized in response to the government’s recent decision to increase the price of diesel by over 33%, part of a broader plan to phase out fuel subsidies in the oil-rich southern African nation. The measure, implemented in early July, has sparked widespread public outrage, particularly among transport workers who say the hike has made operations unsustainable.
Authorities say calm is gradually returning to parts of the city, but tensions remain high as citizens continue to demand urgent economic relief and reconsideration of the subsidy removal plan.
