Xenophobic Protests Sweep South Africa, Sparking Migrant Exodus DATELINE: Johannesburg, South Africa — LEAD Thousands of anti-migrant protesters have taken to the streets across South Africa, demanding the expulsion of undocumented immigrants, leading to a violent surge that has displaced thousands and sparked an exodus of foreign nationals.
The protests, which began in March and escalated through April, May, and June, have reached major cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town.
In late May, the coastal town of Mossel Bay experienced the worst violence, resulting in several deaths and the displacement of hundreds of foreign nationals.
South African police report that 25,000 undocumented migrants have been repatriated, most from other African countries, as a result of the protests.
The violence has been linked to a surge in anti — migrant sentiment, which critics argue is being fueled by underlying issues related to migration and governance in the country.
In a nationally televised address on 7 June 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a package of immigration enforcement measures and condemned vigilante violence.
He acknowledged the failures in migration management and corruption within the immigration system, but emphasized the need to protect human dignity while enforcing immigration laws.
The BBC reported that many foreigners have already fled to escape violence and intimidation.
The Guardian described the violence as ‘explosive allegations about domestic woes,’suggesting that the underlying issues are complex and multifaceted.
CNN reported chilling threats made to migrants, such as ‘leave or return in a coffin,’which reflect the extreme nature of the anti-migrant sentiment.
The protests have also drawn international attention, with countries like Nigeria summoning South Africa’s acting high commissioner over the growing anti-African migrant protests. Critics argue that the government’s response to xenophobia is inadequate, pointing to the repeated outbreaks of violence targeting migrants from various African countries.
KICKER: As the situation continues to unfold, thousands of foreign nationals are seeking refuge in temporary shelters, while the government grapples with the challenge of enforcing immigration laws without sparking further violence and discrimination.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Google News v2
