Foreign migrants caught in the crossfire as new violence erupts in South Africa

Saturday 05 September 2026 - 08:42

By: Azzat Manal

Foreign migrants caught in the crossfire as new violence erupts in South Africa

Tensions surrounding irregular migration in South Africa have intensified after an anti-immigration demonstration in Durban turned violent, leaving several people injured and prompting another intervention by security forces.

According to South African police, around 100 people linked to a group campaigning against irregular migration took part in a march on Thursday. The demonstration targeted a camp set up outside a government building, where hundreds of foreign nationals have reportedly been staying for around 13 weeks. Most of those living at the site are citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Police said an altercation broke out as protesters attempted to approach the camp. Some demonstrators were reportedly carrying sticks, while security forces moved in to prevent the two groups from coming into direct contact. Officers used stun grenades to disperse the crowd and restore order.

Authorities also reported the arrest of a foreign national after a stone thrown during the clashes struck a police officer. Meanwhile, a representative of the Congolese community said that five Congolese nationals, including two children, were injured during the violence.

People staying at the camp say they are seeking protection after fleeing violence and attacks targeting foreigners in South Africa. Community representatives have rejected accusations against the migrants and argued that their presence at the site does not constitute a crime.

Durban has recently become a major focal point for anti-migrant mobilization. Hardline groups have called for undocumented foreigners to leave the country, accusing them of taking employment opportunities and placing additional pressure on public services.

The campaign has contributed to a broader wave of anti-foreigner violence in several parts of South Africa. Police have reported that at least four foreign nationals have died in connection with the recent unrest, while figures cited by several African governments suggest the overall toll could be higher.

The escalating tensions have also prompted some countries to organize repatriation operations for their citizens. Estimates based on figures released by several governments indicate that more than 200,000 people may have left South Africa during the recent period.

Migration remains one of the most sensitive political and social issues in South Africa, a country that hosts millions of migrants, workers and refugees from across the African continent. Economic difficulties, unemployment and pressure on public services have frequently fueled tensions between local communities and foreign nationals.

The latest clashes present a significant challenge for South African authorities, who must address concerns surrounding irregular migration while preventing xenophobic violence and ensuring the safety of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.