Police step up security in Johannesburg and Durban after vehicles are torched and foreign-owned businesses reportedly looted

South Africa is facing renewed tensions after anti-immigration protests in Johannesburg and Durban left at least 24 vehicles burnt and several foreign-owned businesses reportedly looted.

Police have increased security in both cities. The unrest has also raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals, traders and businesses.

24 Vehicles Burnt in Two Cities

According to international media reports, 10 vehicles were burnt in Soweto, Johannesburg. Another 14 were destroyed in Durban.

Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane confirmed the incidents. She said police had intensified operations to restore order.

In Soweto, protesters gathered near a Department of Home Affairs facility in Orlando West. They demanded stricter controls on asylum applications and immigration enforcement.

Reports of gunfire during the demonstration were followed by further violence, including the burning of vehicles. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged shooting.

In Durban, demonstrators gathered near a refugee reception facility. The protest later escalated, with vehicles set ablaze and foreign-owned businesses reportedly attacked and looted.

Police deployed crowd-control units to contain the unrest. Emergency personnel also responded to reports of damaged property.

Three foreign nationals were reportedly arrested over an alleged attack on protesters. Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances and identify those responsible.

Court Ruling Fuels Immigration Debate

The unrest followed controversy over a Constitutional Court ruling on the rights of asylum seekers.

The judgment addressed procedural restrictions affecting people seeking asylum, including requirements linked to irregular entry and reporting procedures.

However, the South African government stressed that the ruling did not automatically grant refugee status, permanent residence or legal immigration status.

Government spokesperson William Baloyi said misinformation about the judgment had contributed to confusion and heightened tensions.

He explained that asylum applications would still undergo legal assessment. Immigration laws also remain in force.

Economic Pressure Adds to Tensions

South Africa has experienced repeated anti-immigration protests, particularly in communities facing unemployment and economic hardship.

Some protest groups blame foreign migrants for competition over jobs, housing and public services.

However, researchers and civil society organisations have warned against placing the blame for the country's wider economic challenges solely on migrants.

The latest violence has renewed concerns about the protection of foreign nationals and businesses operating in affected communities.

South Africa hosts migrants from across Africa and other parts of the world. Its international business community also includes Chinese companies operating in different sectors.

There were no confirmed reports that Chinese nationals or Chinese-owned businesses had been specifically targeted in the latest incidents.

Nevertheless, the unrest highlights the security risks that violence and anti-immigration hostility can pose to foreign residents, traders and investors.

Authorities Appeal for Calm

Police said additional security deployments would remain in place as investigations continued.

The government has urged residents to remain calm and pursue immigration-related grievances through lawful channels.

The latest incidents highlight South Africa's challenge of enforcing immigration laws while protecting constitutional rights and maintaining public safety.

For foreign nationals and businesses, restoring calm will be essential to protecting lives, livelihoods and investor confidence.