Key facts
- Over 3,000 South African soldiers have been deployed nationwide.
- The deployment aims to bolster security during anti-migrant protests.
- Protests have occurred weekly, with some escalating to violence and looting.
- More than 900 arrests were made for offenses including immigration violations.
- The deployment is estimated to cost 54.6 million rand.
South Africa has deployed over 3,000 soldiers nationwide to bolster security and support police during ongoing anti-migrant protests, according to a letter signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The deployment of 3,405 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) began on June 28 and is expected to cost an estimated 54.6 million rand ($3.37 million).
Protesters have marched weekly, with some demonstrations turning violent, involving looting of shops. Organizers vow to continue weekly marches to pressure the government for a tougher stance on undocumented foreign nationals. Police have arrested over 900 people for offenses including immigration violations, public violence, and robbery.
The protests follow months of unrest that have drawn international criticism. Immigrants are often blamed for taking jobs, increasing crime, and straining public services, claims that social scientists state lack evidence. The immigrant population in South Africa is approximately 3 million, representing about 4% of the total population.