Chaos erupts in South Africa as anti-migrant protests sweep nation

Authorities say over 900 arrests have been made as anti-migrant protesters demonstrate through South Africa’s main cities, demanding undocumented migrants leave the country.

South African police said more than 900 people were arrested on Tuesday during nationwide anti-migrant protests, most of which were peaceful but some of which descended into violence and looting.

Deputy National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikili said 120 marches took place across the country, with 108 proceeding peacefully and 12 requiring police intervention.

Those arrested included undocumented migrants accused of immigration violations, as well as others detained on charges including public violence, harbouring illegal immigrants and robbery.

Police said reinforcements were deployed overnight to five provinces in response to isolated unrest, while soldiers were sent to support officers in Johannesburg’s Hillbrow district.

The marches, held in cities including Johannesburg and Durban, were organised to mark what anti-immigrant groups described as a deadline for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa.

The demonstrations followed months of unrest that have drawn international criticism after foreigners were forced from their homes and saw businesses and property vandalised.