South Africa Tightens Security as Anti-Immigrant Protests Trigger Mass Repatriation

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Johannesburg : South Africa deployed a heavy police presence on Tuesday as anti-immigrant protests raised fears of violence, prompting thousands of foreign nationals to seek evacuation to their home countries.

Authorities stepped up security in major cities, including Johannesburg and Durban, to prevent clashes and looting. Several African governments have organised buses and flights to repatriate their citizens after recent attacks linked to rising anti-immigrant sentiment.

At least four foreign nationals have been killed in recent weeks, while many migrants said they had lost their jobs or homes amid fears of further unrest.

The protests, organised by small political parties and vigilante groups demanding the deportation of undocumented migrants, come ahead of South Africa's local elections later this year. Protest leaders said they were calling for peaceful demonstrations, but the government warned it would act against any violence.

South Africa, which has an unemployment rate above 30%, has long attracted migrant workers from across the region. Analysts say economic hardship and political tensions have fuelled growing hostility towards foreign nationals.

Pic Credit: AFP