SA police and protesters must put lives first as 30 June looms

Ahead of 30 June, South Africa is bracing for countrywide anti-immigration protests tied to a deadline set by March and March and other organisations. The article describes a growing climate of fear and reports that vigilantes have attacked people and evicted foreign nationals from homes in some areas. It notes that several foreign nationals have been killed following anti-immigrant protests and that journalists covering the violence have also faced assault.

It explains that while the campaign is framed as targeting undocumented migrants, those targeted in practice are often anyone perceived to be an immigrant of African or Asian origin, whether they are in the country legally or not. The piece adds that some people have fled their homes—particularly in KwaZulu-Natal—and others have left or returned to countries of origin with government assistance in some cases.

The article warns of the risk that demonstrations could turn violent, including attacks carried out by breakaway armed groups, given reports that protesters are sometimes armed with items such as sjamboks, sticks, and spears. It says police briefings indicate security forces will try to ensure attendees are unarmed, and it calls for expanded communication about the illegality of carrying weapons at protests. It also argues that visibility—such as the use of drones and police videographers—could deter violent actions by increasing the likelihood of arrest.

It further states that police and defence leadership held a briefing on 22 June, and that ministers said police resources are being deployed to potential flashpoints, with private security and the South African National Defence Force only expected to become involved if “things get out of hand.” The article closes by urging protest leaders to clearly condemn violence and to make sure supporters participate in an unarmed and non-violent way.