Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
THE South African Government has warned against the rise of vigilantism targeting foreign nationals, saying immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of authorised state officials and not self-appointed groups operating on the streets.
Speaking amid growing concerns over rising xenophobic tensions, South African Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the government would not tolerate unlawful actions by groups demanding immigration documents from foreign nationals.
She said some vigilante groups had gone beyond targeting migrants and were now also harassing South African citizens who do not speak certain languages, particularly isiZulu.
“These groups are not only targeting foreign nationals but are also victimising South Africans who do not speak a certain language,” she said.
Her remarks come at a time when concerns are mounting over what observers say is the increasing normalisation of intimidation, harassment and unlawful immigration checks being carried out by civilians.
South Africa has in recent years experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence, often linked to public frustration over unemployment, crime, illegal migration and pressure on social services.
Foreign nationals, particularly those from other African countries, have frequently found themselves at the centre of heated debates around jobs, economic opportunities and crime.
Groups claiming to protect communities have emerged over the years, with some conducting unauthorised operations in communities and business centres while demanding identification documents from suspected undocumented migrants.
However, authorities have repeatedly stressed that only law enforcement and immigration officials are legally empowered to conduct such operations.
Meanwhile, investigations are reportedly increasingly pointing to the possible involvement of a “third hand”, with claims that a foreign state actor could be exploiting existing grievances and fueling instability for strategic interests.
Authorities suspect that while public concerns around unemployment and social pressures may be genuine, there are growing signs that external actors could be manipulating the situation to deepen divisions, inflame xenophobic tensions and weaken social cohesion.
Analysts have warned that unchecked tensions and misinformation could worsen an already fragile social environment in South Africa, with calls growing for authorities to address both the root causes of public frustrations and the spread of unlawful vigilantism.
