The South African government has praised citizens for largely peaceful demonstrations over migration concerns, while making it clear that anyone who used the protests as an opportunity to commit crimes, loot businesses or incite violence will face prosecution.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said law enforcement agencies successfully managed demonstrations across most parts of the country, responding only to isolated incidents involving looting and attempted looting.
Officials thanked South Africans who exercised their constitutional right to protest peacefully and acknowledged the efforts of community leaders, organisers, religious groups, civil society organisations and police in maintaining public order.
According to the government, the largely peaceful nature of the demonstrations highlighted the strength of South Africa’s constitutional democracy, allowing citizens to express concerns while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
Government stressed that public participation conducted within the framework of the law plays an important role in democratic governance and encouraged continued peaceful civic engagement.
Government warns criminals will be prosecuted
While commending peaceful protesters, authorities drew a clear distinction between lawful demonstrations and criminal conduct.
The government confirmed that police had intervened in several isolated incidents involving looting and attempted looting, adding that investigations remain ongoing.
Officials warned that anyone responsible for criminal activity during the demonstrations would be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
The statement also welcomed the fact that the overwhelming majority of demonstrators rejected violence, vigilantism, intimidation, destruction of property and other unlawful acts, saying such behaviour undermines community safety, economic stability and the rule of law.
Authorities reiterated that criminal acts committed under the cover of public protests would not be tolerated regardless of the cause being advocated.
Migration concerns remain a government priority
The government acknowledged that many South Africans continue to have genuine concerns about unemployment, irregular migration, border security, public safety and pressure on public services.
It said these issues require systematic solutions implemented through constitutional and democratic processes rather than unlawful action.
GCIS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, a five-point strategy aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement, improving labour law compliance, securing national borders, modernising migration management systems, addressing legislative gaps and enhancing cooperation with other African countries on migration challenges.
Authorities also released updated enforcement figures, stating that 4,286 foreign nationals had been repatriated while a further 419 individuals had been deported in recent days.
The government added that efforts to combat corruption, human trafficking, labour exploitation and other criminal activities linked to irregular migration would continue within the framework of the Constitution and existing legislation.
Officials concluded by urging South Africans to remain calm, reject misinformation and xenophobia, and continue working alongside law enforcement agencies to build safe, stable and socially cohesive communities.
Source: The Citizen