Mozambique says at least seven of its citizens have been killed in xenophobic attacks in South Africa where locals have targeted Mozambicans and other African migrants amid recurring anti‑immigrant protests and rising threats against foreign nationals.
According to a government statement, five Mozambicans were killed directly in xenophobic assaults, while two others died in a road accident while fleeing South Africa for safety.
“We regret to report the deaths of seven Mozambican citizens, five of whom were direct victims of xenophobic attacks and two others as a result of a road accident while traveling back to Mozambique in a private vehicle,” the statement said.
More than 300 Mozambicans returned home on 30 May and a further 500 have been sheltering at a safe location in the Western Cape as authorities organise their repatriation.
The group will be transported through the Ressano Garcia border post where returnees are receiving food assistance for their immediate needs and resettlement.
The latest unrest comes as anti‑immigrant groups in South Africa demand that certain foreign nationals leave the country by 30 June, raising fears of further escalation.
South Africa has experienced repeated cycles of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, often fuelled by economic hardship, competition for jobs and political rhetoric targeting migrants.
An estimated 300,000 Mozambicans live in South Africa, which is Mozambique’s largest trading partner in the Southern African Development Community.
JN/APA