South Africans Protest Against Foreign Nationals in Durban

On Wednesday, South Africans protested in Durban against Nigerians and other foreigners, demanding stricter immigration enforcement. The protest, organized by the political party Operation Dudula, saw hundreds march through the streets, waving placards and chanting against undocumented immigrants, specifically targeting individuals from Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Mexico.

Protesters blamed these groups for job losses and rising crime rates. Herman Mashaba, a leader of the party, emphasized the need for government action to prevent the country from being overwhelmed by foreign nationals.

The protests occurred amid rising tensions in South Africa, where unemployment is nearly 32%, with about three million foreigners making up 5.1% of the population. Police intervened with rubber bullets and tear gas as a small group reportedly harassed bystanders and looted shops.

Themba Dlamini, an 81-year-old resident, expressed concerns about the deteriorating situation in the country, linking it to illegal immigration and crime.