Anti-immigrant protests turn violent across South Africa

Thousands of anti-immigrant protesters took to the streets across South Africa on Tuesday after a self-imposed deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country expired, sparking fresh concerns over xenophobic violence and public safety.

Demonstrators carrying national flags and wooden sticks marched through several cities, including Johannesburg and Durban, demanding the removal of undocumented migrants. While many protests remained peaceful, incidents of violence, looting and clashes with security forces were reported in some areas.

The unrest has already forced thousands of foreign nationals to flee their homes, while businesses owned by migrants have been vandalised or shut down amid fears of further attacks.

Thousands of Migrants Displaced Amid Rising Tensions

The latest wave of anti-immigrant demonstrations follows months of growing hostility toward foreign nationals in South Africa, a situation that has drawn criticism from human rights organisations and neighbouring African countries.

According to reports, at least four people have been killed during the unrest, while thousands of migrants have been displaced from their communities.

Many foreign-owned shops remained closed on Tuesday as workers stayed home to avoid potential attacks.

In Durban, Jacinta Ngobese, leader of the anti-immigration group March and March, vowed that protests would continue until the movement's demands are met.

She stated that the group intends to hold weekly demonstrations over the next six months, calling for stronger action against undocumented migrants.

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Violence and Looting Reported in Several Cities

Authorities reported scattered incidents of violence as tensions escalated.

In Thembisa, north of Johannesburg, protesters allegedly threw stones at police officers and individuals suspected of being foreign nationals. Sporadic gunfire was also reported near parts of the city.

Security forces were deployed in several hotspots, including Benoni, where police reportedly used tactical vehicles to disperse large crowds.

In Soweto, some protesters allegedly looted structures belonging to foreign nationals, while police in Pietermaritzburg used rubber bullets to break up demonstrations that turned disorderly.

Law enforcement agencies confirmed multiple arrests linked to looting and public disturbances.

Foreign Nationals Flee Homes and Businesses

Reports from affected communities indicate that some landlords in Johannesburg and Durban have evicted foreign tenants out of fear that their properties could become targets of vandalism.

Several displaced migrants have reportedly been left homeless, with some seeking shelter on the streets after being forced to leave their residences.

Many foreign nationals have interpreted the anti-migrant deadline as a direct threat to their safety, prompting them to relocate or temporarily leave affected communities.

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Ramaphosa Condemns Violence but Acknowledges Immigration Concerns

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned acts of violence and intimidation while acknowledging public concerns surrounding illegal immigration.

In a statement, Ramaphosa stressed that citizens have the right to protest but warned that demonstrations must not result in threats, vandalism or attacks against others.

He called on South Africans to express their concerns peacefully and within the boundaries of the law.

Immigration Debate Intensifies Ahead of Elections

The protests come as South Africa prepares for local elections later this year, with critics accusing some political figures of exploiting anti-immigrant sentiment to gain electoral support.

Many protesters argue that undocumented migrants contribute to unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. However, social scientists and migration experts have repeatedly challenged these claims, saying there is limited evidence to support them.

Despite facing significant economic challenges, South Africa remains one of Africa's leading economies and continues to attract migrants seeking employment and better opportunities.

Official statistics estimate that the country's immigrant population stands at approximately three million people, representing about four percent of the total population.

As tensions continue to rise, authorities have deployed thousands of police officers across affected regions, while the military remains on standby to support efforts aimed at maintaining law and order.