South Africa Tightens Security Before Anti-Migrant Deadline

South Africa has stepped up security measures ahead of a June 30 deadline set by anti-migrant protest groups demanding that undocumented foreigners leave the country.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia announced on Monday that additional security personnel are being deployed across all provinces. Authorities have implemented comprehensive operational plans to protect communities, critical infrastructure and major public spaces.

The move comes after weeks of xenophobic violence that have left at least two people dead and forced several African countries to repatriate thousands of their citizens fleeing the unrest.

Anti-migrant groups have issued an ultimatum demanding that undocumented migrants leave South Africa by the end of the month. Officials have stressed that the demand has no legal basis.

Cachalia said the government supports peaceful protest but warned that violence, intimidation, property destruction and threats to public safety would not be tolerated.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga stated that the military would secure strategic facilities, including airports, and remain on standby to assist police if necessary.

South Africa, which has long attracted migrant workers from across the continent, continues to struggle with unemployment above 30 percent. Economic hardships and concerns over crime have fueled resentment toward foreign nationals in some communities.

Activists say growing social frustration, inequality and unemployment have contributed to the rise of vigilante groups targeting migrants.

The country has experienced several waves of anti-foreigner violence in recent decades, including deadly riots in 2008 and attacks on foreign-owned businesses in 2019.

The latest tensions are unfolding ahead of local government elections scheduled for November 4. Political violence has also intensified, with four individuals linked to political parties recently killed in separate shooting incidents.