VIDEO: Thousands march in South Africa anti-immigration protests

Thousands of protesters took to the streets across South Africa on Tuesday, demanding the expulsion of undocumented immigrants. The demonstrations, which began under a heavy police presence, followed an unofficial June 30 deadline set by anti-migration campaigners for foreigners without legal status to leave the country.

Co-ordinated marches occurred in major cities, including Johannesburg and Durban, with protesters calling for the removal of undocumented foreigners. While President Cyril Ramaphosa urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid intimidation, his government acknowledged the need for immigration reforms. Reports indicate the protests were largely peaceful, though isolated incidents of looting and attempted looting were noted.

In Johannesburg, many businesses remained shut, and a strong police presence was visible. Some protesters reportedly threw bricks, damaging windows in the Yeoville suburb, an area with a significant African migrant population. Five arrests were made in Soweto for alleged looting of a foreign-owned shop, and another five in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal, for a similar alleged break-in.

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intimidation, threats or ultimatums

The demonstrations have heightened concerns among foreign nationals living in South Africa. The BBC reported that many have already fled to escape violence and intimidation. South African police stated that approximately 25,000 people have been repatriated so far, predominantly from other African countries. In Durban, migrants were seen boarding buses to return to their home countries.

Nigerians living in South Africa expressed particular fear, with dozens gathering at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria seeking refuge. Some felt safer at the embassy, while others awaiting evacuation remained stranded as they missed the latest flights. The Nigerian government continues its voluntary evacuation program for its citizens.

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happy to be going back