South Africa saw widespread anti-immigrant protests in June, with thousands of undocumented foreigners fleeing the country amid rising threats and violence. Over 25. 000 people have been repatriated. According to police. As campaign groups set a self-imposed deadline of 30 June for foreigners to leave or face potential violence.

Violence and Ultimatums for Foreign Nationals

Immigrants in South Africa are fleeing for safety amid escalating violence and anti-foreigner protests. In Johannesburg, a Malawian gardener named Kaunga Nyirenda was given an ultimatum by local men: “Leave now or leave in a coffin,” CNN reported. This reflects a broader pattern of intimidation targeting undocumented and documented foreigners alike, with many fearing attacks if they remain.

In the coastal city of Durban, where violence had been expected, the streets were unusually quiet as more than 2,000 protesters in Zulu attire marched through the city center, calling out “Abahambe!”—a Zulu phrase meaning “They must go.” The phrase has become the rallying cry of the anti-immigrant movement, according to The Guardian.

Repatriation Efforts and Fleeing Immigrants

With the 30 June deadline looming, thousands of immigrants have fled their homes in fear, sleeping in open fields, makeshift camps, and on city pavements, according to reports. Several African governments have organized buses or flights to repatriate their citizens, with police confirming that more than 25,000 people have been sent home so far.

In Pietermaritzburg, 50 miles from Durban, families camped outside an abandoned building for days following the murder of a 29-year-old Malawian national by a mob on 19 June. On the eve of the 30 June protests, a long queue of people waited to board buses heading toward South Africa’s northern border, with weary mothers and children gathering around campfires, according to The Guardian.

Government Response and Public Tensions

The South African government has rejected the so-called “deadline” imposed by protest groups, but fears of a violent climax have continued to rise. One of the leading groups, March & March, called for mass protests on 30 June if its demand for the “immediate and massive deportation of all illegal foreigners” is not met, CNN reported.

Protesters, many of whom are self-styled vigilantes, have blamed immigrants for taking jobs, committing crimes, and straining public services. These tensions have led to a climate of fear among foreign nationals, with many choosing to leave rather than risk their safety.