South Africa deports over 53,000 foreign nationals in migration campaign

This initiative follows weeks of anti-immigration protests marked by violence and intimidation, with demonstrators demanding stricter border controls and mass deportations. Protesters accuse migrants of contributing to high unemployment, rising crime rates, and the collapse of public services. The UN has cautioned against using migrants as scapegoats for South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stated that the process aims for orderly migration while respecting human rights, noting it has also led to the apprehension of individuals wanted for alleged criminal activity. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns but condemned attacks on migrants, urging citizens not to take the law into their own hands. South Africa, as the continent's wealthiest nation, has historically attracted migrants seeking economic opportunities, some of whom enter the country illegally.