Curfew Imposed in Minneapolis Amid Spread of Protests Over Black Death in US

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Haeyoung Kwon] As protests over the death of an unarmed Black man due to excessive force by a white police officer spread, curfews have been imposed in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA.

According to major foreign media on the 29th (local time), Jacob Frey, mayor of Minneapolis, and Melvin Carter, mayor of Saint Paul, issued emergency curfew orders for this weekend. On the 29th and 30th, curfews will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following day.

Mayor Frey of Minneapolis stated, "During curfew hours, no one is allowed to be on the streets or in public places," adding, "Exceptions apply only to police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and individuals approved by the authorities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul."

Mayor Carter of Saint Paul declared a state of emergency in Saint Paul.

This curfew order came amid protests by angry citizens after it was revealed that Minneapolis police officers caused the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, by kneeling on his neck on the 25th. Some protesters have engaged in arson, looting, and vandalism of public property, escalating into violent clashes.