South Africa vows crackdown on xenophobic attacks

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged decisive action against groups linked to recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, following a wave of violence that has targeted foreign nationals in several communities.

In a televised national address, Ramaphosa condemned the attacks and warned that immigration laws must be enforced only by state authorities. He said individuals and groups taking the law into their own hands would face legal consequences. The president also rejected attempts to blame migrants for the country’s economic challenges, including unemployment and poverty.

The violence has prompted concern across the continent. Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi and Mozambique have begun assisting citizens affected by the attacks, while Mozambique has reported the deaths of five of its nationals during the unrest. Reuters reported that more than 1,000 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary repatriation from South Africa.

The latest incidents come amid growing anti-immigration protests and public debate over migration policy. South Africa hosts one of the largest migrant populations in Africa and has experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades.

Ramaphosa said the government is strengthening border controls and reviewing immigration procedures as part of broader reforms. He also called for unity and urged citizens not to allow criminal elements to exploit social and economic frustrations.

The government has not announced any arrests linked specifically to the latest attacks.

SOURCE: Reuters