Streets On Edge: Violent Clashes Erupt In South Africa Over Protests Against Foreigners

The protest is part of a growing wave of demonstrations fueled by rising anti-foreigner sentiment in the country, which has in recent years led to repeated outbreaks of violence against immigrants.

The issue has also taken on greater political significance as local government elections draw closer.

The march was organised by a coalition of groups, including political parties and the controversial vigilante group Operation Dudula—Zulu for “push back.”

Protesters filled the streets carrying placards, singing, and chanting as they demanded stricter government action against undocumented migrants.

Police initially blocked the crowd from advancing toward the Durban beachfront, an area some demonstrators claim has become a hotspot for drug-related and criminal activities.

Tensions escalated when a smaller group broke away from the main protest, reportedly harassing passersby and looting nearby shops.

In response, security forces intervened, deploying teargas and rubber bullets to restore order.

Several business owners had earlier shut their shops in anticipation of possible violence.

Also present at the protest was ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, who criticised the government’s approach to immigration.

“People may criticise us, but we cannot stand by and watch our country deteriorate before our eyes,” Mashaba said.

He accused authorities of failing to properly manage migration, claiming that people from various countries—including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Mexico—are entering South Africa unchecked.

Some protesters argued that undocumented migrants are contributing to rising unemployment and crime.

An 81-year-old participant, Thembi Dlamini, said corruption and illegal migration are worsening conditions in the country.

“I have watched my country decline because officials accept bribes to issue documents illegally, and some police turn a blind eye to crime,” she said.

She also expressed concern over job competition, saying unemployed citizens are increasingly struggling to find work.

“Jobs are being taken by people from other African countries who are here illegally. What opportunities are left for our children?” she asked.

Despite its own high unemployment rate—currently around 32 percent—South Africa remains a major destination for migrants due to its relatively strong economy.

Official figures show that about three million foreign nationals, making up roughly 5.1 percent of the population, currently reside in the country.