Thousands of South Africans took to the streets on Tuesday in coordinated anti-immigration protests across several major cities, demanding the removal of undocumented foreign nationals and urging the government to strengthen border enforcement.
The demonstrations, organised by the "March and March" movement, Operation Dudula, and a coalition of smaller political parties and civic groups, followed the expiration of an unofficial June 30 deadline the organisers had given undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Protesters marched through parts of Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and other urban centres, carrying placards and chanting slogans calling for stricter immigration policies and greater employment opportunities for South African citizens.
The large-scale demonstrations prompted a significant deployment of police and security personnel as authorities sought to prevent violence, looting and attacks on foreign-owned businesses that have accompanied similar protests in the past.
Officials closely monitored the protests, urging participants to remain peaceful while warning that anyone engaging in criminal activities or acts of violence would face prosecution.
The organisers argued that rising unemployment, pressure on public services and increasing crime have been worsened by illegal immigration, insisting that the government must take decisive action to enforce existing immigration laws.
However, human rights organisations and migrant advocacy groups condemned the demonstrations, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could fuel xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.
Several civil society organisations called on political leaders to address the country's economic and social challenges without placing blame on migrants, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable communities regardless of nationality.
South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of anti-foreigner violence over the years, with migrants from countries including Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Ethiopia and Somalia often targeted during periods of social and economic tension.
The South African government has repeatedly stated that while illegal immigration remains a concern, law enforcement operations must be conducted within the framework of the country's constitution and international human rights obligations.
Political analysts say the renewed protests reflect growing public frustration over unemployment, economic hardship and border management, issues expected to feature prominently in national political debates in the coming months.
Authorities have continued to maintain a heightened security presence in affected areas to ensure public safety and prevent any escalation of violence as demonstrations continue.