XENOPHOBIC UNREST: From Durban to Soweto, anti-migrant protests spark isolated looting of foreign and local traders

The desperate exodus from Durban’s Old Drive-In site on June 30 marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing tensions between South Africa’s government and its migrant population. As the nation prepared for a nationwide protest organized by groups such as March and March, the government accelerated its repatriation efforts, aiming to remove approximately 19,000 undocumented foreign nationals—primarily from Malawi—from the country. The Old Drive-In, a former parking lot, was transformed into a central hub for this operation, with long queues forming as citizens waited to be processed and transported. The site became a focal point for both administrative efficiency and heightened security, with police conducting regular checks on buses and monitoring the flow of people. This operation was part of a broader effort to address concerns surrounding undocumented migration, which had sparked widespread public discourse and political debate.

The timing of the repatriation drive coincided with the impending national demonstrations, which called for stricter measures against undocumented migrants. Government officials emphasized that while the right to protest is constitutionally protected, acts of violence or hostility toward foreign nationals would not be tolerated. President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated this stance, warning against vigilantism and urging that immigration issues be resolved through legal channels. His message underscored the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles while addressing the growing anxieties among the local population regarding economic pressures and social cohesion.

The scale of the operation was unprecedented, with over 58 buses departing on the final day of the repatriation phase, followed by an additional 10 the next morning. These figures suggest a well-coordinated logistical effort, involving collaboration between the eThekwini Municipality, the Department of Home Affairs, and non-profit organizations. Officials noted that logistical challenges persisted, particularly concerning the transportation of personal belongings, as buses lacked adequate space for luggage. To mitigate this, plans were underway to secure additional transport options. The relocation process aimed to send individuals primarily to Musina in Limpopo, a region known for hosting repatriation centers.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli highlighted the significance of the operation, stating that over 15,000 foreign nationals had already been repatriated or deported. He emphasized that the focus was shifting towards clearing remaining sites in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, with the goal of ensuring that all designated locations were vacated by the end of the operation. Ntuli also acknowledged the importance of welfare considerations, noting that support services were being provided to those being deported or voluntarily repatriated. This included assistance with transport arrangements, reflecting a nuanced approach to managing the complex humanitarian and logistical aspects of the operation.

However, the repatriation efforts did not occur without controversy. In the days leading up to the protests, incidents of xenophobic violence emerged, particularly in areas such as KwaDabeka. Local residents reportedly targeted businesses owned by foreign nationals, resulting in looting and property damage. Security forces, including the SANDF, were deployed to restore order, yet the extent of the damage left many businesses in disarray. Reports indicated that some individuals were forced to flee their homes, raising concerns about the safety and stability of affected communities. These events underscored the deep-seated fears and frustrations within certain segments of the population, highlighting the need for inclusive dialogue and policy reforms to prevent future escalations.

As the situation unfolds, the government faces mounting pressure to balance its commitments to national security and economic stability with the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of nationality. The upcoming weeks will likely see continued scrutiny of the repatriation process, as well as efforts to address the underlying causes of xenophobia and economic insecurity. The outcome of these developments will shape the trajectory of South Africa’s relationship with its migrant population and its broader socio-political landscape.