South Africa Arrests 80 Suspected Vigilantes Over Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians and Other Migrants

South Africa says about 80 suspected vigilante members have been arrested following a wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals, as authorities insist the government does not support violence against migrants.

The South African government has confirmed the arrest of around 80 suspected members of vigilante groups allegedly linked to recent xenophobic attacks and other criminal activities targeting migrants across the country.

The announcement was made by South Africa’s Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, during the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Forum held in Lagos on Wednesday.

According to Moroe, the suspects were arrested across five to six provinces as security agencies intensified efforts to curb vigilante activities and restore public order.

South Africa Moves Against Vigilante Groups

Speaking during the forum, which focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa, Moroe said the government is determined to stop individuals and groups from taking immigration matters into their own hands.

He explained that approximately 80 suspected vigilante members have already been taken into custody and are facing legal proceedings.

“About 80 people involved in these criminal acts and who are members of vigilante groups have been arrested across five to six provinces, and the law is taking its due course.”

Moroe acknowledged that South Africa has recently experienced incidents involving vigilante groups calling for undocumented migrants to leave the country while engaging in unlawful attacks and intimidation.

South Africa Denies Supporting Attacks on Nigerians

The South African envoy firmly rejected claims that the country’s government supports or encourages attacks against Nigerians or other foreign nationals.

He described such allegations as false and said they have fueled unnecessary tensions between both countries.

“I can tell you for free, this is fake news.”

According to Moroe, the actions of vigilante groups do not reflect the position of the South African government or the views of the wider South African population.

He stressed that authorities strongly condemn all forms of violence, discrimination, and human rights abuses regardless of a person’s nationality.

Constitution Protects All Migrants, Says Envoy

Moroe emphasized that South Africa’s Constitution guarantees protection for everyone living within the country, including both documented and undocumented migrants.

He noted that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of legally authorized agencies, not private citizens or vigilante groups.

“Only competent law enforcement agencies and immigration officers have the legal standing to deal with migration issues.”

He added that no individual or organization has the authority to enforce immigration laws through violence or intimidation.

Security Agencies Continue Investigations

The Consul-General said South African security agencies are continuing investigations while working to restore calm in affected communities.

He assured that everyone found responsible for the attacks would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Moroe also called for stronger cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa, saying both countries should continue building diplomatic and economic ties despite recent tensions surrounding xenophobic violence.

He reiterated that the South African government remains committed to protecting the rights of all residents and ensuring that those behind the attacks are held accountable.