South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has criticised violent protests and attacks targeting foreign nationals across several communities in the country.
In a public address on Monday, Ramaphosa described those behind the unrest as opportunists taking advantage of economic frustrations and unemployment to fuel violence and division.
According to him, some individuals have illegally taken over duties meant for law enforcement agencies by stopping people on the streets, checking identities, and carrying out unlawful searches.
“These are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting legitimate grievances under the false guise of community activism,” the president said.
He stressed that no citizen has the legal authority to conduct immigration enforcement outside approved government agencies.
Ramaphosa warned that the South African government would not tolerate lawlessness, regardless of who is involved.
Government Intensifies Immigration Crackdown
Despite condemning xenophobic violence, the South African leader maintained that the government would continue taking action against illegal immigration through lawful means.
He explained that undocumented migration contributes to social tension, especially in communities struggling with unemployment and poverty.
According to the president, some employers prefer hiring undocumented foreign workers because they accept lower wages, a situation he said weakens labour protection laws and affects South African workers.
Ramaphosa revealed that the government is strengthening border security through the Border Management Authority while working with the military to stop illegal border crossings.
He disclosed that nearly 450,000 attempted illegal entries were intercepted during the last financial year.
The president also confirmed ongoing arrests and deportations of undocumented migrants as part of broader immigration reforms.
Labour Inspections to Increase
Ramaphosa said the government plans to deploy up to 10,000 labour inspectors across the country to monitor compliance with labour and immigration laws.
He warned employers against hiring undocumented migrants illegally and stated that authorities would prosecute cases involving fake documents, bribery, and abuse of public services.
“Everyone in South Africa is bound by the same laws,” he stated.
The president further called for calm and cooperation between citizens and foreign nationals amid rising tensions in several communities.
Rising Tensions Across South Africa
The remarks come after renewed anti-foreigner protests and violent incidents were reported in parts of Durban, Cape Town, East London, and KwaZulu-Natal.
The situation has also raised concerns among Nigerians living in South Africa.
Nigerians in Diaspora Commission earlier advised Nigerians in the country to remain calm, avoid confrontations, and stay alert as authorities continue efforts to manage the crisis.
The commission also confirmed that the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg remains operational and is engaging South African authorities over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
Conclusion
Ramaphosa’s latest remarks highlight growing pressure on the South African government to balance immigration control with the protection of human rights and public safety.
As tensions continue to rise in several communities, authorities are expected to intensify security operations while seeking long-term solutions to unemployment, migration challenges, and social unrest.
