In brief
In a swift push to enforce immigration laws, South Africa’s government announced that more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated since the launch of its “migration management” campaign five weeks ago. Most of those removed were from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, though the total number is expected to rise. The crackdown follows months of violent anti‑immigrant protests demanding tighter border controls and mass deportations. While officials argue the operation targets undocumented residents and alleged criminals, critics warn against using migrants as scapegoats for socio‑economic challenges.
The South African government reports that more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated since launching a “migration management” campaign five weeks ago.
Officials say the majority of those removed were from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and the number is likely to rise as further operations continue.
The campaign follows weeks of anti‑immigration protests, which have seen violence, intimidation and looting at the hands of demonstrators who demand tighter border controls and mass deportations.
Responding to concerns, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi told a press conference in Pretoria that the process helps identify people wanted by police for alleged criminal activity.
"We are striving to achieve an orderly and regular migration which is mindful and sensitive to the concerns raised by our people, while observing human rights and dignity of all people in our country, irrespective of their citizenship and immigration status," Teresa Kubayi said.
The government also warned protesters against unauthorized searches of homes and businesses suspected of sheltering undocumented migrants.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns about immigration but condemned attacks against migrants, urging citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
South Africa, the continent’s wealthiest nation, has long attracted migrants seeking better opportunities, including many who enter the country illegally.
