- South Africa has deployed over 3,400 soldiers to support police during anti migrant protests.
- More than 900 people were arrested following demonstrations that turned violent in some areas.
- Protest organisers plan to continue weekly marches demanding tougher action on undocumented migrants
The South African government has deployed more than 3,400 soldiers across the country to strengthen security and assist the police as anti migrant protests continue to spread.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the deployment follows demonstrations organised by an anti migrant movement that has vowed to stage protests every Thursday, demanding stricter action against undocumented foreign nationals.
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According to a letter signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa and addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, 3,405 members of the South African National Defence Force began operations on June 28. The security mission is expected to cost about 54.6 million rand, equivalent to approximately $3.37 million.
The letter, which was later published by Parliament, stated that the troops would remain on standby to respond to any security threats that may arise during the protests.
Large crowds carrying South African flags gathered in several cities on Tuesday. While most of the demonstrations were peaceful, some turned violent, resulting in the looting of businesses and clashes in certain areas.
Police said more than 900 people were arrested for offences including immigration related violations, public violence, robbery and harbouring undocumented migrants. Soldiers were also deployed to parts of central Johannesburg, where many migrants reside, to reinforce security.
The protests come after months of growing hostility toward foreign nationals, with reports of migrants being forced from their homes and their businesses and properties damaged. The unrest has attracted criticism from the international community.
Many protesters accuse undocumented migrants of taking jobs, contributing to crime and placing additional pressure on public services. However, social scientists argue there is little evidence to support those claims.
According to Statistics South Africa, the country is home to about three million immigrants, representing roughly four percent of the national population, a figure considered relatively low compared with many countries around the world.
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