Police deploy across S’Africa ahead of anti-immigration protests as 25,000 repatriated

Police officers have been deployed across South Africa amid fears that anti-immigration protests could turn violent, as President Cyril Ramaphosa urged demonstrators to act without “intimidation, threats or ultimatums”.

The planned protests mark an unofficial deadline set by campaigners for all undocumented foreigners to leave the country.

Many migrants have already fled to escape violence and intimidation. South African police say 25,000 have been repatriated so far, most from other African countries.

One undocumented Malawian told the BBC he was “happy to be going back” but “heartbroken” to be leaving behind four young children.

Johannesburg was unusually quiet on Tuesday. All shops near planned protest sites were closed, while police visibility was high on major streets.

Police said five people were arrested in Soweto for allegedly looting a foreign-owned shop. Five others were arrested for allegedly breaking into a tuck shop in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal.

Many businesses in central Durban were shut.

Ramaphosa has repeatedly warned demonstrators to act peacefully while acknowledging the need for immigration reforms.

“Some foreign nationals who live in South Africa are here lawfully,” he wrote in his weekly newsletter. “They work, study, raise families, invest in our economy and contribute positively to our society. They too are entitled to the protection of our laws and our Constitution.”

“The right to protest and freedom of expression does not allow people to threaten or intimidate others, or to engage in acts of vandalism or violence,” he added.

Official figures show more than three million documented foreign nationals in South Africa.

Ahead of the deadline, thousands of migrants have waited in temporary camps for weeks out of fear for their safety.

In Durban, white tents housing mostly Malawians were being dismantled as authorities moved to clear the transit camp. Women in colourful sarongs sat on belongings, waiting to board buses home to Malawi.

Anti-migrant marches were authorised for Tuesday in Durban, Johannesburg and other cities.

Authorities warned organisers to ensure there is no violence but said they are prepared for disruption. Police stated traditional weapons are not allowed, raising potential tension as many protesters are ethnic Zulus who carry shields, whips and sticks on marches.

According to the government, more than 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated since protests began earlier this year.

Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria and Zimbabwe have organised repatriations by air or bus over the last few weeks, with about 3,500 foreigners volunteering to leave.

South African authorities claim more than 500 Nigerians repatriated did not have correct papers, which Nigeria has disputed.

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