South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals, describing perpetrators as criminals and opportunists, while vowing government action against illegal immigration and those carrying out the violence.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned violent attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, describing perpetrators as criminals exploiting legitimate grievances.
According to Premium Times, at least two Nigerians and two Ghanaians have been killed in xenophobic attacks, with properties belonging to African migrants also destroyed.
In a statement posted on his website, Ramaphosa said: “These are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting the legitimate grievances, particularly those of the poor, under the false guise of ‘community activism’.”
He warned that perpetrators assuming state functions — including stopping people to check identification and searching private property — would face consequences. “Such lawlessness will not be tolerated, regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are,” he wrote.
Ramaphosa also acknowledged the challenge of illegal immigration, saying his government would strengthen border security and step up workplace enforcement against employers hiring undocumented workers.
NEWS NOW:
