Anti-xenophobia groups sound alarm after bloody Bellville clashes
Unrest erupted after protesters marched from the Bellville taxi rank towards the police station to follow up on a memorandum previously handed to authorities over concerns including undocumented immigration, foreign-owned businesses and alleged drug dealing.
Anti-xenophobia organizations have warned that recent violent clashes in Bellville indicate a growing trend of vigilante behavior and hostility towards foreign nationals. The Operation Ubuntu coalition, comprised of over 60 civil society groups, condemned the unrest following a march by Concerned Citizens, March and March and Operation Dudula.
The march, which began at the Bellville taxi rank and headed towards the police station, erupted in violence over concerns regarding undocumented immigration, foreign-owned businesses, and alleged drug dealing. Conflicting reports emerged regarding the use of tear gas and live ammunition by police, with SAPS refusing to confirm the use of live ammunition.
Operation Ubuntu argued that the actions were criminal rather than peaceful protest and demanded police accountability and a coordinated safety plan for affected areas. Meanwhile, the Western Cape Coalition Against Xenophobia separately documented allegations of discrimination faced by migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in accessing healthcare, including denied treatment, wrongful charges, and humiliation.
The coalition proposed staff training, clearer communication, interpreter services, and improved complaints procedures, with the Department of Health agreeing to consider the proposals. Both organizations have urged authorities to take action before tensions escalate further, emphasizing that the Bellville violence cannot be viewed as isolated.
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