South Africa has initiated deportation or repatriation proceedings against more than 53,000 foreign nationals to combat irregular immigration.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi announced Sunday that over 53,000 undocumented individuals were processed as of July 11.
The sweeping operations primarily target Malawian citizens, followed closely by nationals from neighboring Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
This administrative crackdown unfolds against a dark, simmering backdrop of nationwide anti-immigration protests and violent xenophobic unrest.
Under vigilante pressure, the state has recorded 205 cases of intimidation and migration-related offenses, leading to 350 arrests.
A recent wave of targeted violence has already claimed more than ten lives, echoing the nation’s tragic past.
Angry demonstrations erupted late last month after a strict ultimatum demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country expired.
Activist groups accuse foreign nationals of straining local public services and exacerbating South Africa’s deep economic woes.
In response, several African countries have hastily repatriated their citizens to rescue them from the hostile environment.
Minister Kubayi firmly condemned the rise of vigilante justice, asserting that border control remains an exclusive state responsibility.