Thousands of police officers were deployed across South Africa after large-scale protests against illegal immigration erupted, with destructive clashes spreading across multiple cities.
Protests and Violence
The unrest, involving thousands of protesters, broke out ahead of a June 30 deadline set by some organizers demanding the departure of all illegal immigrants. At least four people have been killed as violence and looting spread across the country.
The marches reportedly drew thousands of mostly poor or unemployed South Africans, who say foreign migrants have taken jobs by accepting lower wages while also fueling higher crime rates. Multiple businesses and properties were vandalized in several areas, according to reports.
Government Response
Police deployed tactical vehicles and fired shots in Benoni, east of Johannesburg, after being confronted by a group of roughly 500 protesters. Thousands of police officers have been deployed nationwide, while the military was placed on standby, a defense spokesperson said in a statement.
The "March and March" group, one of the more prominent organizations behind the unrest, addressed the violence, saying it cannot be held responsible for spontaneous incidents breaking out during the demonstrations.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
