Gabon's media regulator imposed an indefinite suspension of major social media platforms in February, citing security concerns during anti-government protests in the central African nation.

The suspension prompted a surge in Virtual Private Network (VPN) usage among Gabonese citizens seeking to bypass the restrictions within weeks of the announcement. The blocking of social media platforms quickly became a widely discussed topic throughout the country.

Authorities have reportedly begun stopping young men at road checkpoints in the capital Libreville and other urban centers to confiscate mobile phones with VPNs installed or detain the owners. Information about these enforcement actions has spread through word-of-mouth communications.

Activists and opposition members have reported that their social media accounts were suspended, which they attribute to efforts by state officials. The social media restrictions occurred during a period of anti-government demonstrations in the country.

The suspension represents the latest development in what activists describe as Gabon's documented history of restricting internet freedoms and curtailing dissent through legal measures.