Story perspectives

Ramaphosa Calls Peaceful Protests; Police Arrest 900, Return 25k Migrants

7/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Cyril Ramaphosa met protest leaders on June 29, warning demonstrations must stay peaceful.
Police said demonstrators marched in Johannesburg, Durban and other cities on June 30 2026, staying peaceful despite isolated looting and a shooting.
Police deployed thousands of officers, placed army units on standby in five provinces, arrested over 900 people for looting, intimidation and immigration violations, and repatriated at least 25,000 undocumented migrants, including about 600 Nigerians, since the deadline.

History

Historical Context

In September 2008 South Africa saw xenophobic riots that killed at least 62 people, exposing deep unemployment-driven resentment toward African migrants. Similar violence resurfaced in September 2019 in Johannesburg, leaving seven dead and prompting over 400 arrests. June 2026 demonstrations in Johannesburg and Durban echo those outbreaks, leading President Cyril Ramaphosa to call for order as security prepares to detain protesters.

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Story summary

President Cyril Ramaphosa met protest leaders on June 29, warning demonstrations must stay peaceful.
Police said demonstrators marched in Johannesburg, Durban and other cities on June 30 2026, staying peaceful despite isolated looting and a shooting.
Police deployed thousands of officers, placed army units on standby in five provinces, arrested over 900 people for looting, intimidation and immigration violations, and repatriated at least 25,000 undocumented migrants, including about 600 Nigerians, since the deadline.

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