Thousands of African migrants are continuing to leave South Africa as a wave of anti-immigration protests, violent incidents and political pressure converge ahead of a self-imposed June 30 deadline set by activist groups demanding the removal of undocumented foreigners.
The crisis has unfolded across major cities, where anti-immigration groups have staged marches, door-to-door campaigns and coordinated online mobilization calling for undocumented migrants to leave. Their demands include tighter border enforcement and mass deportations, which they argue are necessary to address unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
The groups have also threatened a nationwide shutdown if the government fails to act by June 30, a move that has put police on high alert and prompted security preparations in multiple provinces.
Violence fuels mass displacement
What began as political agitation has increasingly turned into violence in some areas. Authorities are investigating a series of attacks linked to anti-migrant sentiment, including killings and arson targeting foreign-owned homes and settlements.
