10.10.2026 21:07
After anti-immigrant protests in South Africa turned into violent incidents, the army was mobilized to ensure security in Johannesburg and Durban. During the demonstrations, 24 vehicles were set on fire and many businesses were looted, while at least 19 people were detained in Durban. Police intervened against protesters with tear gas, stun grenades, and plastic bullets, while soldiers also began patrolling the streets.
After anti-immigrant protests in the Republic of South Africa turned into violent incidents, the army deployed to support police forces to ensure public order in Johannesburg and Durban.
According to reports in the local press, soldiers affiliated with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) were deployed to Johannesburg and Durban, where anti-immigrant violence continues.
In the Soweto area, one of the centers of violent incidents in Johannesburg, soldiers were seen patrolling together with police.
POLICE USED TEAR GAS, STUN GRENADES AND PLASTIC BULLETS
According to a report by state broadcaster SABC, at least 19 people were detained due to the violent incidents in Durban.
In a statement from KwaZulu-Natal police, it was stated that tear gas, stun grenades and plastic bullets were used against protesters, and security measures were increased in the areas where the incidents occurred.
Thami Ntuli, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal province, to which the city of Durban belongs, announced in a statement yesterday that he had requested army support from incumbent Police Minister Firoz Cachalia due to escalating violent incidents.
ANTI-IMMIGRANT VIOLENT INCIDENTS
In South Africa, anti-immigrant protests intensified after the Constitutional Court's ruling in July, which allowed people who entered the country through irregular means to apply for asylum, began to be implemented.
After the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a directive on September 28 to implement the court ruling, anti-immigrant protests were organized in front of asylum centers.
As a result of the protests turning into violent incidents on October 8, a total of 24 vehicles were set on fire, 10 in Johannesburg and 14 in Durban, and many businesses, most belonging to foreigners, were looted.
The Ministry announced on October 9 that it had withdrawn the directive after the protests turned violent.