JOHANNESBURG – Thousands of migrants fled South Africa Tuesday as anti-immigrant activist groups enforced a self-declared deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country, triggering fear of xenophobic attacks and sparking protests in major cities.
Movements including March and March and Operation Dudula set Tuesday as the cutoff for undocumented foreigners to depart, threatening a “national shutdown” and other consequences if they stayed.
The groups cite unemployment, crime and strain on public services as grievances, targeting migrants largely from Zimbabwe, Malawi, Nigeria and other African nations.
As of midday, authorities reported no widespread violence but said tensions remained high with protests ongoing.
Police were monitoring compliance with public order laws as demonstrations unfolded in Johannesburg, Durban and other areas, with marchers moving on commercial districts and foreign-owned businesses.
The ultimatum prompted an exodus in recent weeks. Migrants crowded consulates in Pretoria and Cape Town, sought shelter in makeshift camps in Durban, and pursued urgent repatriation.
Families have been split, with some parents leaving children behind, while several African governments facilitated voluntary returns. Legal residents also reported anxiety.
Police launched a major security operation backed by hundreds of millions of rand across major cities. President Cyril Ramaphosa and the government rejected the deadline, saying it lacks legal standing and that immigration enforcement remains the sole responsibility of the state.
Isolated incidents of intimidation and business closures were reported in the lead-up, though officials said major violence had not erupted by midday.
Human rights groups criticized the campaign, warning of risks to lives and social stability.
The situation continues to unfold as police monitor protests into the afternoon and evening.