More than 178,000 immigrants have suddenly fled or been deported from South Africa. Here's why

Malawian migrants stand in a queue for their deportation at a temporary centre, in Durban, South Africa, on June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, file)

A Malawian migrant stands in a queue ahead deportation at a temporary centre in Durban, South Africa, Friday, June 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, file)

Protesters march against illegal immigration, in Johannesburg, South Africa, on June 30, 2026. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, file)

A protester dressed traditional attire marches against illegal immigration, in Johannesburg, South Africa, June 30, 2026. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, File)

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — More than 178,000 African immigrants have left South Africa in recent months, spurred by a crackdown on undocumented migration by authorities and sometimes violent anti-immigration protests that have led many to leave citing fears of attacks.