Cars torched and shops looted as anti-migrant violence erupts in South Africa

Anti-immigration protests in South Africa escalated into violent confrontations, with at least 24 vehicles torched and foreign-owned shops looted in the cities of Soweto and Durban. Clashes erupted in Soweto, a sprawling township near Johannesburg, and Durban, a major port city, on Thursday. The violence erupted following allegations of an assault on a protester by a foreign national in Durban. Three foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the assault allegations.

In Durban, protesters gathered outside a government refugee reception center, demanding that it cease accepting asylum applications. Police responded by firing rubber bullets to disperse the crowds, but no injuries were reported. Police spokesperson Xolani Fihla confirmed that 14 vehicles were set on fire in Durban and 10 in Soweto, where gunshots were also heard during the confrontations between residents and foreign shopkeepers.

Orlando West, a neighborhood in Soweto, saw protesters initially demand the closure of convenience stores run by foreign nationals. However, the protesters eventually forced foreign traders out of some areas, leading to shop attacks and the subsequent arson of a building. Police reinforcements were deployed to curb further violence.

The government has vowed to apprehend those responsible for the destruction. The unrest follows a July ruling by South Africa's Constitutional Court, which overturned restrictions on asylum seekers. The court ruled that migrants must be allowed to submit asylum applications, regardless of how they entered the country or missed immigration deadlines. This decision has fueled anger among anti-immigration campaigners who fear it will encourage undocumented migration.

Government spokesman William Baloyi disputed claims that the ruling automatically grants migrants refugee status or permanent residency. He emphasized that applications will still be assessed individually and applicants will continue to undergo immigration checks. The protests forced tens of thousands of migrants to flee, with some repatriated through government-organized programs.

South Africa has a history of xenophobic attacks, with over 60 people killed and tens of thousands displaced in widespread violence in 2008. The latest unrest comes amid widespread poverty, inequality, and high unemployment, affecting roughly a third of the workforce. Migrants are often blamed for taking jobs, contributing to crime, and overburdening public services, claims that researchers say lack evidence.

Despite economic challenges, South Africa remains a primary destination for migrants seeking employment, safety, and better opportunities.