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

At least 24 vehicles have been burned and foreign-owned shops desecrated in South Africa as anti-immigration demonstrations turned violent in two major cities, police report. Clashes erupted Thursday in Soweto, a vast township near Johannesburg, and Durban, a key port city on the eastern coast. The unrest stems from anger over a recent court ruling requiring the government to lift barriers that had blocked some migrants from applying for asylum.

The violence erupted after allegations surfaced in Durban of a foreign national assaulting a protester. Three foreign nationals were detained in connection with the alleged attack. In Durban's city center, police used rubber bullets to disperse crowds as businesses shuttered their doors. Local police officer Xolani Fihla stated that no injuries had been reported.

At least 14 vehicles were set alight in Durban, alongside clashes between foreign nationals and South Africans. Police reported 10 vehicles torched in Soweto, where gunshots were also heard during confrontations. In Soweto's Orlando West neighborhood, protesters initially gathered to demand the closure of small convenience stores, or "spaza shops," run by foreign nationals.

Protesters drove out some foreign traders, while shops were attacked and a building burned down. Authorities deployed reinforcements to curb further violence.

The government pledged to hunt down those responsible for the property damage. The unrest follows a July ruling by South Africa's Constitutional Court, the nation's highest court, which struck down restrictions preventing certain people from seeking asylum based on how they entered the country or missed immigration deadlines. The decision allows asylum seekers to submit applications, regardless of their entry method or missed deadlines.

The ruling has prompted hundreds to gather at refugee reception centers, fueling anger among anti-immigration groups who fear it will encourage undocumented migration. Government spokesman William Baloyi denied claims that the ruling automatically grants migrants refugee status or permanent residency, insisting applications would still be assessed individually and applicants would face immigration checks.

The protests displaced thousands of migrants, some returning home via repatriation programs organized by their governments.

South Africa has faced xenophobic attacks for nearly two decades. In 2008, more than 60 people were killed and tens of thousands displaced during widespread attacks on foreign nationals. The latest unrest occurs amid high poverty, inequality, and unemployment affecting about a third of South Africa's workforce. Migrants are often blamed for taking jobs, contributing to crime, and straining public services, though such claims are not backed by evidence.

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