South Africa readies crackdown on June 30 immigration protests

The South African government says it is on high alert ahead of planned protests on 30 June, signalling a firm response to any violence, intimidation or vigilantism. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi warned that perpetrators will face prosecution and reiterated that the state will protect both citizens and foreign nationals.

Authorities have intensified intelligence‑led operations, registering 89 public‑order cases and arresting 164 people for incitement and breaches of the Regulation of Gatherings Act. The ministry has also engaged major social‑media platforms to curb misinformation and boosted border security with additional roadblocks, checkpoints, surveillance equipment and military support at ports of entry. Kubayi stressed that immigration enforcement will remain within constitutional limits and the rule of law.