Tensions are running high in Greenfields after a community leader involved in anti-illegal immigration protests was shot at about 06:00 on July 4.

According to community members, the leader, Andile Somgxada, who has been at the forefront of recent anti-illegal immigration marches, was shot earlier this morning and is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.

The shooting prompted residents to take to the streets in another protest, which organisers said was intended to remain peaceful.

Speaking to Alberton Record, one of the march leaders said the community was shocked by the shooting and decided to continue demonstrating.

During the march, protesters removed food stock from spaza shops they believe are owned by foreign nationals, placing it outside the shops.

Alberton Record did not witness any looting during this incident.

The leader alleged that a day before the shooting, a foreign national had asked residents where the community leader lived.

The leader said community members believe these incidents are connected.

Alberton Record has not independently verified these allegations, and police have announced no arrests relating to the shooting.

The situation became increasingly volatile after police responded to the scene.

The Alberton Record witnessed officers attempting to disperse the crowd and arrest several protesters.

Some community members resisted arrest, questioning why they were being detained while they claimed no action had yet been taken against those responsible for the shooting.

WATCH: Greenfields residents demand action on undocumented migrants and foreign-owned spaza shops

Residents repeatedly accused police of protecting foreign nationals rather than addressing the concerns raised by the community.

Alberton Record also observed some foreign nationals throwing bricks in the direction of protesters during the unrest.

The leader further alleged that he and other community members were threatened at gunpoint by a foreign national last week after raising concerns about illegal immigration.

He claimed they reported the incident to the local police station but were allegedly told officers would only respond once a shooting had occurred.

Alberton Record has not independently verified this allegation and has requested comment from police.

As the confrontation escalated, Alberton Record witnessed police firing rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

A heavy police presence, including officers from the Eden Park and Springs SAPS, remains in the area as authorities work to restore order.

There are unconfirmed reports that a child may have been struck during the unrest.

However, police had not confirmed these reports at the time of publication.

This is a developing story. Alberton Record will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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