Organisers of South Africa’s anti‑illegal immigration protests say they will continue demonstrations for the next three months, insisting government must act on undocumented migrants after the unofficial 30 June deadline for foreign nationals to leave the country.
The March and March movement, led by Jacinta Ngobese‑Zuma, made the pledge after wrapping up Tuesday’s nationwide protests, which drew supporters in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and parts of the Eastern Cape.
Ngobese‑Zuma told reporters the movement would persist regardless of turnout, saying even small groups would continue weekly demonstrations until government responds.
The 30 June mobilisation formed part of a broader campaign demanding the removal of undocumented migrants, a push that has triggered tensions and sporadic violence in recent days.
Several shops were ransacked in Johannesburg before calm was restored. One person was shot and killed in Alexandra on Tuesday night when community members allegedly looted foreign‑owned spaza shops.
In Johannesburg’s Hillbrow, two people – including a 17‑year‑old – were shot and injured when unknown attackers opened fire on protesters.
Demonstrators allegedly retaliated by torching the suspects’ vehicle. Police arrested three people and seized two licensed firearms.
KwaZulu‑Natal police arrested at least 10 suspects for looting tuck shops and homes belonging to foreign nationals.
Charges include house robbery, theft, intimidation and assaulting police officers. Authorities condemned criminals for exploiting what they described as a “genuine cause” to commit offences.
JN/APA