South African authorities have deployed heavy security across major cities ahead of planned anti-migrant protests, amid fears the demonstrations could turn violent.
The protests coincide with an unofficial deadline issued by campaigners demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country. President urged demonstrators to exercise their constitutional right peacefully, warning against intimidation, threats and violence.
Police presence has been significantly increased in cities including and , where businesses in some areas remained closed ahead of the marches. Authorities reported the arrest of five suspects for allegedly looting a foreign-owned shop in Soweto, while another five were detained for allegedly breaking into a tuck shop in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal.
The government said more than 25,000 undocumented migrants have been repatriated so far, most of them from other African countries. Thousands of others have sought refuge in temporary transit camps while awaiting processing, fearing attacks linked to the protests.
In Durban, authorities have begun dismantling transit camps housing mainly Malawian migrants as many prepare to return home by bus. Some migrants said they were leaving reluctantly after facing hostility and discrimination.
One Malawian migrant, Nelson Mbewe, said he travelled to South Africa in search of work but had been told to return home because he lacked valid immigration documents. He also described being called “Makwerekwere,” a derogatory term commonly used against African migrants.
Another Malawian, Hassan Phiri, appealed for unity across the continent, saying Africans should support one another regardless of nationality.
Ramaphosa acknowledged concerns over illegal immigration but stressed that many foreign nationals live legally in South Africa, contributing to the country’s economy through work, business and education. He said lawful migrants are entitled to the full protection of the country’s Constitution and warned that the anti-migrant protests must not descend into vandalism or violence.
South African authorities have authorised anti-migrant protest marches in Johannesburg, Durban and other cities but warned organisers to prevent violence. Police also prohibited protesters from carrying traditional weapons such as shields, sticks and whips, raising concerns about possible clashes with demonstrators.
The government said more than 12,000 migrants have been deported or repatriated since anti-migrant protests intensified earlier this year, while countries including Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria and Zimbabwe have assisted in voluntary repatriation efforts.
South African authorities also claimed that more than 500 Nigerians repatriated lacked valid documentation, a claim disputed by Nigerian officials.
Xenophobic violence has remained a recurring challenge in South Africa. According to the African Centre for Migration and Society’s Xenowatch tracker, two people have been killed in xenophobic incidents this year. In 2008, more than 60 people lost their lives during widespread anti-foreigner riots.
