SANDF Deployed in Durban Following Anti-Immigrant Violence
Military patrols intensify in Durban CBD after reports of forced shop closures and looting.
1Military Presence in Durban
SANDF soldiers began patrolling Durban’s central business district on Tuesday following reports of renewed anti-immigrant violence. This deployment aims to restore order after groups of protesters forcibly closed shops and targeted foreign nationals. The military presence serves as a visible deterrent against further looting and mob attacks in the city center.
2Escalation of Mob Activity
On Monday afternoon, a group of approximately 20 masked protesters armed with sticks moved through the CBD. They aggressively forced business owners to close their shops and demanded to see identity documents. Eyewitnesses reported that the group assaulted staff members and stole cash before fleeing the scene on Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street.
3Specific Areas Under Surveillance
The unrest impacted several major thoroughfares, including Dr Pixley kaSeme Street, Russell Street, and Broad Street. Other affected locations included St George, Pine, Grey, Victoria, and Inkosi Albert Luthuli Streets. Security forces are currently maintaining a heightened presence in these volatile zones to prevent further disruption to local commerce and public safety.
4Operation Prosper Mandate
The current military deployment is part of Operation Prosper, authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa. A total of 510 soldiers were assigned to KwaZulu-Natal to support police efforts in maintaining law and order. The mission is scheduled to run from 9 October to 30 November 2026, with a total budget of R34,082,720.
5Historical Context of Unrest
This recent violence follows earlier anti-immigration protests in October that resulted in one fatality, widespread looting, and the destruction of 14 vehicles. On 22 October, a Ugandan national was beaten to death during a protest march. Police have since arrested five men in connection with the murder and attempted murder of foreign nationals.
6Government Stance on Violence
The South African government attributes the current unrest to misinformation regarding a Constitutional Court judgment on asylum procedures. Officials have explicitly warned that immigration concerns do not justify vigilantism, arson, or attacks on property. The state maintains that such criminal acts undermine the rule of law and threaten the safety of residents.
7Law Enforcement Response
While security companies and law enforcement were deployed to the CBD, Durban Metro Police initially stated they were unaware of the specific incidents on Monday. However, they have committed to following up on reports of violence. The SANDF remains on standby to respond to any further eventualities as the situation in Durban evolves.
8Implications for Public Safety
The ongoing tension highlights the fragility of public order in the face of xenophobic sentiment and misinformation. With the military deployment set to continue through November, the focus remains on preventing further vigilantism. Authorities must now balance the need for security with the protection of foreign nationals living and working in Durban.
Original article: IOL News — SANDF Deployed in Durban Following Anti-Immigrant Violence