Tension has gripped parts of South Africa after anti-immigration protests turned violent, leaving at least 24 vehicles burnt and foreign-owned shops looted in two major cities.
The violence broke out on Thursday, October 8, in Soweto, near Johannesburg, and Durban, a major coastal city. Police confirmed that protesters set vehicles on fire and targeted businesses owned by foreign nationals.
According to police reports, 10 vehicles were torched in Soweto, while another 14 were set ablaze in Durban. Authorities also reported damage to buildings and looting of shops during the demonstrations.
The protests were linked to anger over a Constitutional Court ruling that removed certain barriers preventing asylum seekers from applying for protection in South Africa.
Some protesters demanded that refugee reception centres stop accepting asylum applications. Tensions escalated further after allegations that a foreign national had assaulted a protester in Durban. Police said three foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the alleged assault.
In Soweto, clashes were reported between residents and foreign shopkeepers, while police investigated reports of gunfire. Officers were deployed to affected areas to prevent further violence and restore order.
South African police officials condemned the destruction of property and warned that those responsible would be identified and prosecuted where evidence supports criminal charges.
The government has also raised concerns about misinformation surrounding the court ruling. Officials have clarified that allowing people to apply for asylum does not automatically grant them refugee status, permanent residence or citizenship.
The latest unrest comes amid wider concerns about unemployment, poverty and immigration in South Africa. Foreign nationals have repeatedly faced hostility, with previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence forcing people to flee their homes and businesses.
The events have also raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals, including people from other African countries who live and work in South Africa.
Authorities are continuing efforts to maintain calm as the country faces renewed pressure to address migration concerns through lawful processes rather than violence.