Immigration, particularly undocumented immigration, has become a highly contentious political issue in South Africa, with protesters accusing them of putting pressure on public services and engaging in crime.
March and March set an unofficial deadline of June 30 for all undocumented immigrants to leave the country. Protesters promised to march weekly until their demands are met.
The South African government said more than 53,000 foreigners have been deported or repatriated since it launched its ‘Manage Immigration’ campaign five weeks ago.
Xenophobia has long been a problem in South Africa, Africa’s wealthiest country and has long attracted immigrants seeking better economic opportunities.
Sometimes it led to violence. The protests have seen violence, intimidation and looting.
Last Tuesday, five people were arrested in Limpopo province on suspicion of impersonating immigration officers and illegally asking foreigners to leave the country.
Police said the incident occurred after a Nigerian national who was in South Africa legally was threatened by the suspects and forced to close his business.
Lieutenant-General Dimpaine issued a “stern warning” to those who “continue to threaten, harass and commit violence against foreign nationals”.
“The law applies equally to everyone,” he said.
“No person or entity has the authority to conduct immigration investigations, verify legal status, or remove people from the community.”
Asked about how some foreigners have been treated by anti-immigrant protesters, Dube said the March and March “reject any form of violence. We reject any form of anti-law.”
According to official statistics, there are more than 3 million registered foreigners in South Africa, and this does not include illegal aliens.
Several countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Uganda, have been organizing flights or buses to help their citizens return home in recent weeks.
