The South African Human Rights Commission has called for urgent government intervention following reports of attacks and intimidation targeting foreign nationals in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the commission said it was deeply concerned by reports and videos showing migrants allegedly being harassed, assaulted and threatened by groups of South Africans.
According to the SAHRC, some citizens had reportedly demanded identification documents from foreign nationals, forcibly shut down migrant-owned businesses and looted shops.
The commission warned that members of the public must not take immigration enforcement into their own hands, noting that such responsibilities lie with immigration authorities and the police.
“Violence, intimidation, hate speech, looting, and property destruction are unacceptable and constitute serious human rights violations and criminal conduct,” the statement read.
The rights body urged government departments and law enforcement agencies to move quickly to contain the situation in KwaZulu-Natal and prevent similar incidents in other provinces.
It also appealed to South Africans to pursue grievances peacefully and lawfully rather than resorting to acts of violence or vigilantism.
The commission said it would continue monitoring the situation closely while engaging stakeholders to promote accountability and protect the rights of all affected persons.
The latest warning comes days after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged both citizens and foreign nationals to obey the law amid intensified government efforts to address illegal migration.
