In a significant response to escalating protests against illegal immigration, South Africa has deployed thousands of police officers across various cities. This unrest began on Tuesday, with violent clashes involving numerous demonstrators, coinciding with a June 30 deadline set by some groups demanding that all undocumented migrants leave the country.
The protests have largely been fueled by a mix of economic discontent, as many participants—predominantly poor or unemployed South Africans—claim that foreign immigrants are taking jobs, driving down wages, and contributing to increasing crime rates. The violence that ensued has resulted in at least four fatalities, with reports of looting and destruction spreading nationwide.
The scale of these protests has been described as the most significant anti-immigration unrest since similar violence erupted in 2008. Ahead of the deadline, many foreigners, particularly from other African nations, have already evacuated, but tensions in the country remain palpable.
Destruction has been reported in numerous areas, with many businesses closing their doors in anticipation of further unrest. There are claims that landlords in cities like Durban and Johannesburg have unlawfully evicted foreign tenants, while a group of Congolese nationals has been found sleeping on the streets of Durban.
Although some demonstrations were peaceful, police have made several arrests and resorted to firing rubber bullets to disperse crowds. In instances of chaos, protesters reportedly looted properties owned by foreigners in locations such as Soweto. Witnesses noted that in Tembisa, rioters threw stones at law enforcement and migrants, and gunfire was heard intermittently.
Police have mobilized tactical units and warned that they are prepared to confront illegal actions. Lt. Gen. Thebelo Moshikiri emphasized the government’s firm stance against law-breaking. Meanwhile, the March and March group, a key organization behind the protests, has distanced itself from the violence, suggesting that they cannot control the behavior of all participants. They plan to continue their demonstrations weekly until their demands are met, specifically calling for the use of national resources to remove illegal immigrants.
Despite high unemployment rates, South Africa continues to be a major economic player in Africa, attracting many immigrants. Current estimates suggest that the immigrant population stands at around 3 million, accounting for about 4% of the national population.
