South Africa intensifies deportation campaign amid anti-migrant protests

South Africa says more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated in a five-week migration campaign, with officials saying most are from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [5]. The crackdown comes after weeks of anti-immigration protests marked by violence, intimidation, and looting, and the government says it will continue enforcing immigration laws while warning protesters against unauthorized searches [5]. Why it matters: This is one of South Africa’s biggest undocumented-migrant crackdowns in years, and it is unfolding alongside public unrest that could further inflame tensions if protests continue [5]. The campaign has regional consequences as neighboring countries have already flown citizens home, and the UN has warned against scapegoating migrants for broader socioeconomic problems [5]. Key insights: Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said 53,499 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation and repatriation [5]. | Officials say the campaign is being framed as an effort toward ‘orderly and regular migration’ while observing human rights and dignity [5]. | The government says the process has also helped catch people wanted by police for alleged criminal activity [5]. | Anti-migrant activists have threatened weekly protests, and authorities say there are fears demonstrations could turn violent [5].