The state must stop vigilante groups that are unlawfully targeting migrants, business owners and communities, Amnesty International South Africa said today.
The reported ongoing harassment of people on the grounds of their nationality or because of their perceived immigration status, often taking the form of illegal requests for identification documents, intimidation, forced eviction from businesses and homes, and public shaming constitutes a violation of human rights and the rule of law.
At times, this happens while police officers accompanying protesters on their route stand by while suspected undocumented migrants are pulled from their homes, and their possessions damaged or looted.
There has been a growing normalisation of vigilantism in communities across the country. Videos circulating on social media and media reports suggest that acts that would once have been considered unacceptable are increasingly being tolerated, and in some instances celebrated.
"The failure of the state to act decisively against these groups has created a dangerous impression that people have the right to violate the rights of others simply because of their nationality or perceived immigration status," said Amnesty International South Africa’s Executive Director Shenilla Mohamed.
