According to a message published on the WeChat official account 'China Embassy in South Africa' on October 10th, recently, civil anti-immigration organizations in South Africa organized demonstrations in the downtown area of Durban in KwaNna Province and the Soweto area in Gauteng Province. They protested against foreign citizens applying for South African refugee status. As a result, conflicts, vandalism, robberies, and arson incidents occurred against shops owned by foreign immigrants and foreigners.
The embassy in South Africa reminds Chinese citizens and institutions stationed there to pay close attention to the developments in the region. Avoid passing through or visiting areas where there are riots or unsafe conditions. If you encounter demonstrations or other security incidents, do not stay or watch; instead, take a detour to avoid getting involved. In case of emergencies, respond calmly and rationally to avoid escalating conflicts. Prioritize ensuring your personal safety, and seek help from local police or the Chinese embassy and consulates in South Africa as soon as possible.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) previously reported that riots broke out in Durban and Soweto, South Africa on the 8th. Anti-immigration protests escalated into violent incidents, with at least 24 cars burned down, and shops owned by foreigners were vandalized and robbed.
The spark that ignited the riots was a directive issued by South Africa’s Ministry of Interior, based on a decision by the Constitutional Court. The directive aimed to ease the screening process for illegal immigrants who apply for refugee status or asylum. Anti-immigration groups in South Africa accused the government of trying to legalize some illegal immigrants, allowing them to compete for local jobs. They demanded that refugee centers in places like Durban stop accepting asylum applications.
On October 8th local time, anti-immigration riots occurred in Durban, South Africa. The police extinguished the fires. AFP
South Africa's Interior Ministry stated on the 9th that it would adjust its policies, but did not provide any specific details. In a statement, the Interior Ministry said that the current policy had overwhelmed its staff, posing a serious threat to "public safety and order." The statement also noted that the new policy would continue to comply with the decisions of the Constitutional Court.
South African government spokesman Willem Balesi said that false information regarding the verdict has been deliberately disseminated to mislead the public into believing “ undocumented immigrants can automatically obtain legal status.” He stressed that the Constitutional Court's verdict would not automatically grant illegal immigrants legal status or permanent residency rights. The South African government will continue to individually assess and review relevant applications.
South African Acting Chief of National Police Prun Dimpane strongly condemned the acts of property destruction. South African police have increased their forces to prevent further violent incidents. The South African government has promised to hold those responsible for the riots accountable.
