South Africa deports over 53,000 immigrants in crackdown amid anti-migrant protests

South Africa has deported or repatriated more than 53,000 African immigrants in a single month as part of a significant crackdown by authorities. The intensified operation has coincided with a series of protests against illegal migration, some of which have turned violent. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stated that over 80% of the immigrants sent home were from Malawi, with others originating from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Nigeria, Uganda, and Kenya.

Several African nations have provided transport for their citizens returning home amidst a surge in anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa. This has led to sporadic attacks against foreigners and has left parts of the country on edge. Authorities have arrested 350 individuals in connection with public violence, intimidation, and unauthorized immigration checks, a trend where civilian groups attempt to verify migrants' legal status.

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More than 80% of the immigrants sent home were from Malawi.

South African police are investigating the deaths of at least three migrants, two from Mozambique and one from Malawi. Nigeria has reported the deaths of two citizens during anti-immigrant protests, though South African officials deny a link. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced plans to bolster border security and enforce immigration laws, acknowledging rising tensions. He cautioned citizens against vigilantism following reports of attacks on migrants.

The anti-migrant groups had set a June 30 deadline for undocumented immigrants to leave, which the government rejected. However, the pressure prompted thousands of Malawians in Durban to seek repatriation. Officials reported that while some repatriations were voluntary, many were official deportations for lack of documentation. Over 20,000 migrants were processed at a temporary immigration center in Musina.

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South Africans against taking the law into their own hands.