Nationwide Demonstrations Draw Thousands
Thousands of people marched in major cities across South Africa on Tuesday, calling on the government to remove undocumented migrants from the country. The demonstrations followed a deadline set by anti migrant groups, which demanded that illegal immigrants leave South Africa.
Authorities increased security across several cities to prevent violence. Police officers, supported by private security personnel, monitored protest routes and public spaces throughout the day. While most demonstrations remained peaceful, officials reported a few incidents of violence and looting.
Police Increase Security Across Major Cities
The Ministry of Police confirmed that the protests were largely peaceful despite isolated disturbances. In Johannesburg, many businesses in the city center remained closed as police maintained a visible presence on major roads.
Security was also strengthened in Hillbrow, a suburb with a large migrant population. Reports indicated that a teenager was shot and a vehicle was set on fire, prompting additional military deployment to stabilize the area.
Meanwhile, in Yeoville, some protesters damaged property by throwing bricks at residential buildings occupied by foreign nationals. Police quickly responded to prevent the situation from escalating further.
Migrants Leave as Fear Grows
Many undocumented migrants have already left South Africa due to rising tension and fear of attacks. According to police, around 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated so far. Most of those returning home are from neighboring African countries.
Some migrants expressed mixed emotions about leaving. While they welcomed the opportunity to return safely, many also faced the painful reality of leaving family members and livelihoods behind.
Arrests Made Following Isolated Violence
Law enforcement agencies arrested several individuals during the protests. In Johannesburg’s Soweto township, police detained five suspects accused of looting a foreign owned shop.
Authorities also arrested around 10 people in KwaZulu Natal over looting incidents. In separate cases, police arrested one woman for allegedly assaulting an officer and another man for intimidating and attacking a foreign national.
Businesses in central Durban also remained closed as a precaution while demonstrations took place across the city.
Protest Leaders Demand Tougher Immigration Action
During the demonstrations, protest organizers handed memorandums to government officials in both Johannesburg and Durban. The documents called for stronger action against undocumented migrants and stricter enforcement of immigration laws.
Jacinta Ngobese Zuma, leader of the anti migrant movement March and March, announced that her organization plans to hold protests every Thursday for the next six months. She said the campaign would continue until the government removes undocumented migrants from South Africa.
Members of another anti migrant organization, Operation Dudula, also pledged to continue supporting law enforcement by encouraging authorities to verify the legal status of suspected undocumented migrants.
Government Seeks to Ease Tensions
Ahead of the nationwide protests, President Cyril Ramaphosa met with protest leaders in an effort to reduce tensions and encourage peaceful demonstrations.
The government has continued to urge citizens to remain calm while allowing law enforcement agencies to handle immigration matters through legal procedures. Officials have also appealed for restraint to prevent violence and protect public safety.
Although Tuesday’s demonstrations remained mostly peaceful, the protests highlighted the growing debate over immigration, public safety, and economic pressures in South Africa. The issue is expected to remain a major political and social challenge in the months ahead.
