JUST IN: South Africa hails peaceful anti-illegal immigration protests, vows tough action against criminals

Africa, Crime Diary

PRETORIA, South Africa (NPA) — The South African Government has commended citizens for conducting largely peaceful demonstrations against irregular migration across several provinces, while reaffirming its commitment to tackling illegal immigration through lawful and constitutional measures.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government expressed appreciation to South Africans who exercised their constitutional right to protest peacefully and responsibly.

It also praised community leaders, organisers, civil society groups, religious leaders and law enforcement agencies for maintaining peace, restraint and respect for the rule of law throughout the nationwide demonstrations.

“The peaceful conduct displayed today reflects the strength of our democracy and demonstrates that South Africans can voice their concerns firmly and lawfully while respecting the rights and dignity of others,” the statement said.

Although the protests remained largely peaceful, authorities confirmed that police responded to isolated incidents of looting and attempted looting.

The government warned that individuals who exploited the demonstrations to commit criminal acts would face prosecution.

“Those who chose to exploit the marches to commit criminal acts will face the full might of the law. Police will continue to identify, arrest and prosecute all those responsible for criminal conduct,” it said.

The government acknowledged that many South Africans have legitimate concerns over unemployment, irregular migration, service delivery, border security and public safety, stressing that such issues would continue to be addressed through democratic and lawful processes.

It welcomed the rejection of violence, vigilantism, intimidation, provocation, looting and destruction of property by the overwhelming majority of protesters, noting that such acts have no place in a constitutional democracy.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to implementing President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management.

According to the statement, the five-point strategy focuses on strengthening the enforcement of immigration and labour laws, improving border security, enhancing migration management systems, addressing legislative and policy gaps, and working with other African countries to manage migration more effectively.

The government disclosed that it has continued to intensify the deportation and repatriation of foreign nationals across affected provinces.

It said 4,286 foreign nationals have been repatriated, while an additional 419 have been formally deported in recent days.

Authorities reiterated that efforts to combat criminality, corruption, human trafficking, labour exploitation and other offences linked to irregular migration would continue within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.

The government also appealed to citizens to remain calm, reject misinformation and xenophobia, and continue supporting law enforcement agencies in building safe, secure and cohesive communities.

“We will manage migration in a manner that protects our national interest, promotes the rule of law and advances the values upon which our democracy is founded,” the statement added.