South Africa Steps Up Security Ahead of Anti-Migrant Ultimatum Deadline

South African authorities have stepped up nationwide security deployments ahead of a June 30 deadline issued by fringe anti-illegal immigration groups demanding that undocumented foreigners leave the country.

Law enforcement officials said police presence has been strengthened across all provinces amid rising tensions and recent incidents of xenophobic unrest that have left at least two people dead.

The country, one of Africa’s largest and most industrialised economies, has in recent weeks experienced sporadic violence linked to anti-migrant sentiments.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said the South African Police Service had elevated its operational readiness to protect communities, critical infrastructure, and key public spaces.

“The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with comprehensive deployment plans in place,” he said.

He added that while peaceful protest would be respected, any form of violence, intimidation, destruction of property or threats to public safety would not be tolerated.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga said the military would be deployed to secure strategic locations such as airports and would support police operations if required.

“If, and I hope it is not going to reach that point, called upon by the police to support, we will,” she said.

South Africa has long been a destination for migrant labour but continues to struggle with high unemployment and recurring waves of anti-foreign sentiment, often fuelled by claims that migrants contribute to job losses and crime.

The country has experienced several deadly outbreaks of xenophobic violence in the past, including major incidents in 2008, 2015, 2016 and 2019, which left dozens of people dead and widespread destruction of property.

The latest tensions come ahead of local government elections scheduled for November 4, amid a politically charged environment.

Authorities say security operations will remain in place nationwide to prevent any breakdown of law and order as the deadline approaches.