South Africa: Over 900 people arrested during anti-immigrant protests
Police confirm hundreds arrested after violence and looting
Written by: Mohamed Ragab
South African police have announced the arrest of over 900 people during anti-immigrant protests in several cities across the country. Some demonstrations turned violent with looting, despite authorities confirming that the majority of gatherings were peaceful.
National Deputy Police Commissioner Tebello Musiekwane said 120 demonstrations were organized nationwide, 108 of which proceeded without incident, while 12 demonstrations required security intervention due to riots and security violations.
Assorted charges for detainees
Police clarified that the detainees face charges related to violating immigration laws, public violence, looting, and theft, in addition to harboring irregular migrants.
In the town of Alexandra in Johannesburg, one person was shot dead during looting targeting small shops owned by immigrants, while other neighborhoods witnessed sporadic shootings and vandalism.
Security reinforcements in five provinces
Authorities have deployed security reinforcements to five of the country's provinces, and have also called on army forces to support the police in the Hillbrow neighborhood in central Johannesburg, following incidents of violence and two injuries in a shooting.
In the city of Durban, a foreign national died after jumping from a building, amid reports that he feared being attacked due to the protests.
Rising tensions over irregular migration
The protests came in response to calls from anti-irregular immigration groups, demanding that illegal immigrants leave the country, accusing them of contributing to rising unemployment rates, crime, and strain on public services.
In contrast, the South African government affirms that the immigration issue must be addressed through official institutions and the rule of law, emphasizing its rejection of violence or targeting of foreigners.
Fears of renewed violence against foreigners
Recent developments have raised concerns about the return of xenophobic violence, which South Africa has witnessed on previous occasions, resulting in deaths and the displacement of thousands of migrants from neighboring African countries.
Observers believe that the continuation of economic challenges and high unemployment rates contribute to rising tensions, while human rights organizations call for the protection of all residents in the country, and accountability for those involved in acts of violence and looting, while addressing the causes of the crisis through comprehensive legal and economic solutions.
