Anti-foreigner violence flares up again in South Africa

Yesterday 13:10

By: Azzat Manal

Anti-foreigner violence flares up again in South Africa

Clashes between anti-immigration groups and foreign nationals erupted in several parts of South Africa on Thursday, with incidents reported in Soweto, near Johannesburg, and in the eastern coastal city of Durban. The unrest involved vehicle fires, vandalism and attacks on businesses owned by foreign nationals, prompting police intervention.

In Soweto, at least 10 vehicles were set on fire, according to police, although no injuries were reported. Local media footage also showed shops operated by foreign nationals being targeted during the disturbances.

Kholani Vhehla, a Johannesburg police spokesperson, said authorities had received reports of gunfire directed at protesters. He confirmed that confrontations had taken place between South African citizens and foreign residents in the area, as security forces worked to contain the situation.

In Durban, tensions escalated near immigration offices after large numbers of asylum seekers gathered in the area. Police reported that at least 14 vehicles were burned and three foreign nationals were arrested on suspicion of involvement in an assault. Officers also used rubber bullets to disperse protesters.

The violence in Durban extended beyond vehicles. A business operated by foreign nationals was reportedly set ablaze, while other shops were vandalized and looted. Police officers were also targeted, and a municipal building was set on fire, adding to concerns over public safety and damage to local infrastructure.

The latest unrest comes amid continuing disputes over immigration enforcement and access to the asylum system. Tensions have intensified following a decision by South Africa’s highest court in July requiring the Department of Home Affairs to accept asylum applications, including those submitted by people who entered the country irregularly.

The government has acknowledged that refugee reception offices are under considerable pressure because of the number of people seeking protection. Officials have stressed, however, that accepting an application does not automatically grant an individual refugee status; each claim must still go through the relevant procedures.

Acting police chief Pauline Dimpane said law enforcement authorities were pursuing those responsible for the violence. She emphasized that the right to protest does not give anyone permission to commit criminal acts, reinforcing the government’s position that demonstrations must remain peaceful.

Anti-immigration campaigns have grown more confrontational in recent months. Earlier, hardline groups issued warnings demanding that migrants leave the country by June 30. Police have also recorded at least four migrant deaths linked to violence associated with these movements.

South Africa has long faced tensions surrounding immigration, unemployment, access to public services and economic inequality. Foreign nationals, including people who run small businesses and contribute to local economies, have periodically been targeted during xenophobic attacks. Rights advocates have repeatedly warned that frustration over economic and social challenges can lead to violence against vulnerable communities.

The latest incidents highlight the challenge facing South African authorities as they attempt to maintain public order while protecting the rights and safety of both citizens and foreign residents. Police investigations are continuing, while the renewed unrest has raised further concerns about the risks facing migrants and asylum seekers in the country.