By Palesa Matlala
- Organisers say about 10,000 people joined the Johannesburg march, which ended at Kwa Mai Mai after calls for foreign nationals to leave.
- Police arrested several people for looting and attempted looting after violence broke out and journalists covering the protest were attacked.
About 10,000 people marched through Johannesburg’s inner city on Tuesday as part of nationwide protests demanding tighter immigration laws and the removal of undocumented foreign nationals.
The march started peacefully and was escorted by police and metro police for most of the day. It ended at Kwa Mai Mai in the city centre, where organisers declared it a success.
Violence broke out in some areas after smaller groups split from the main march. Police confirmed several arrests for looting and attempted looting. Some flats in the inner city were reportedly looted.
In some areas, residents responded by throwing stones at protesters. There were also reports of rock throwing in Hillbrow. Journalists covering the demonstrations also came under attack as tensions escalated.
Police said there were no reports of widespread destruction across the city.
After the main march ended, smaller groups kept moving through parts of the inner city under police watch. Police kept a strong presence into the evening to stop further violence and clear the remaining crowds.
March leader Ngizwe Mchunu said the protest had achieved its goal.
“It was more than just a success. We were triumphant. They need to go,” he said.
The Police Ministry said officers across the country had been told to act quickly against anyone breaking the law during the protests. Police spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said law enforcement would not tolerate criminal behaviour.
“Members deployed across the country have been instructed to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who engages in criminal activities,” she said.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said peaceful protest is protected by the Constitution, but warned that violence and criminal acts would not be tolerated.
Police remain deployed across Johannesburg. Investigations into the violence are continuing, and more arrests are expected.
Pictured above: Police remained on high alert after thousands marched through Johannesburg and violence broke out in parts of the inner city.
Image source: Palesa Matlala
