{
  "id": 13189106,
  "title": "Some Durban protesters say unaware of withdrawn asylum directive",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/09/some-durban-protesters-say-unaware-of-withdrawn-asylum-directive",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-09T19:20:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "SABC News",
    "slug": "sabc-news",
    "url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/1167515-2/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Protesters in Durban expressed confusion over the Department of Home Affairs' withdrawal of a directive that broadened access to asylum application procedures, following a Constitutional Court ruling. The ruling has sparked heated debates as tensions rose, leading to violent demonstrations across the city. Damaged buildings, shop looting, and vehicles set ablaze were reported due to protesters demanding government action on immigration concerns. Police presence increased to quell the unrest, which continued to spread across Durban. The protesters shared their perspectives on the Home Affairs decision. One said, \"I was not aware that Home Affairs had decided to withdraw. I’ve been here at this march since very early this morning, so I have not been checking any updates on social media or on the news. However, as much as I am happy with this move by Home Affairs, I still think we need to continue with this march; we have had enough.\" Another added, \"I was also not aware. I think we can continue protesting, but, however, it needs to be done in a peaceful manner. No one must be harmed; property must not be destroyed.\"",
  "summary": "Several buildings have been damaged, shops looted, and vehicles set alight by protesters.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "IOL",
        "title": "Police use tear gas, stun grenades as anti-immigration protesters return to Durban streets",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/09/police-use-tear-gas-stun-grenades-as-anti-immigration-protesters",
        "published": "2026-10-09T19:10:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}