On 1 June 2026, residents of Semphetenyane Village in Lithoteng Ward (MMC 09), Maseru, protested the deteriorating condition of a public road connecting the community to the Tikoe industrial area. The demonstration followed a social media post by the Maseru City Council claiming that maintenance and repair works had been completed. Residents disputed the claim, arguing that the road remained in poor condition, with large potholes, muddy pools, and sections that are frequently impassable.
Community members blocked sections of the road using burning tyres and demanded accountability from local authorities. Members of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) were deployed to disperse the protest and reopen access routes. According to reports, approximately 40 residents were arrested during the operation, while eight individuals were subsequently charged with offences including breach of peace, threatening internal security, and obstructing police officers in the execution of their duties. The accused were later released on bail.
The incident also raised concerns regarding media freedom. A journalist from the MNN Centre for Investigative Journalism reported that police confiscated her mobile phone while she was filming events at the scene and questioning remarks made by Assistant Commissioner of Police Kokong Malefane. According to the journalist, the confiscation prevented her from documenting subsequent developments and speeches by public officials. The phone was reportedly returned several hours later.
Photos and videos circulating on social media also appear to show police using force while arresting some protesters, including women. In addition, one arrested resident was reportedly hospitalised following the arrests and is expected to appear before court at a later date.
The incident raises concerns regarding the proportionality of police responses to community protests, the protection of freedom of expression and assembly, and the ability of journalists to report freely on matters of public interest. Civil society organisations have also highlighted broader questions regarding the implementation of the Public Meetings and Processions Act and policing practices during public demonstrations.