LIVE: Anti-illegal immigration protest in Thokoza turns tense as some participants loot trader stalls
An anti-illegal immigration protest is continuing through Thokoza, with police monitoring the situation after some participants allegedly looted informal trader stalls and targeted businesses believed to be owned by foreign nationals.
An anti-illegal immigration protest is continuing through Thokoza this afternoon, with police maintaining a strong presence as tensions escalate in parts of the township.
Although several protesters told Alberton Record the march was intended to remain peaceful, some participants have allegedly begun looting goods from informal trader stalls near the Old Natalspruit Hospital.
Alberton Record witnessed protesters removing goods from several stalls while the march continued through the area.
The demonstrators are calling for stricter enforcement of South Africa’s immigration laws and action against undocumented foreign nationals.
As the march moves through different parts of Thokoza, some protesters are gathering outside spaza shops believed to be owned by foreign nationals, demanding that the owners leave the area.
Alberton Record has also observed groups of protesters entering residential properties in Phenduka, Thokoza where they believe foreign nationals are living.
Some protesters have warned residents that they will return later if the people they are looking for are not found.
The incidents appear to contrast with the message shared by several protesters earlier in the day, who said the demonstration would be peaceful and free of violence or looting.
Not everyone in the community, however, has chosen to join the protest.
Speaking to Alberton Record from inside her yard, one resident questioned what the march would ultimately achieve.
“We march, and then what?
“We’re saying these people are the ones causing crime and doing everything wrong, but it is us who are selling drugs in our communities, not these people,” said a resident who asked to remain anonymously.
She said the community also needs to confront its own role in addressing crime instead of placing all the blame on foreign nationals.
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) are accompanying the march and continue to monitor developments while working to maintain public order.
ALSO READ: Security tightens across Alberton ahead of June 30 marches
