Migrants in South Africa Fear Possible Attacks as Unofficial June 30 Deadline Approaches

Migrant communities across South Africa are living in fear after an unofficial anti-immigrant deadline calling on foreign nationals to leave the country spread through social media and pamphlets.

The disputed June 30 deadline, which has not been recognised by the South African government, has increased anxiety among migrants who fear possible violence.

In southern Johannesburg’s Tembelihle settlement, residents gathered ahead of the deadline in a meeting organised by the Tembelihle Crisis Committee, a group that has previously worked against xenophobic attacks. The organisers urged residents not to target foreign nationals.

However, the meeting revealed deep divisions, with some speakers blaming migrants for crime and social challenges, while others warned against violence.

Shortly after the gathering ended, reports emerged that a Malawian man had been stabbed nearby. It remained unclear whether the incident was linked to anti-immigrant tensions or ordinary crime.

Many Malawian migrants gathered outside their consulate in Johannesburg said they feared for their lives and were trying to return home.

One migrant said he had been warned that violence could occur if foreigners remained in South Africa after June 30.

The deadline gained attention after fake notices circulated online claiming undocumented migrants would face arrest, detention, and deportation if they did not leave. Authorities dismissed the messages as false.

South African police said they were monitoring the situation closely, cancelling leave for some officers and deploying additional personnel in areas where protests were expected.

Anti-immigration groups said their campaigns were aimed at government failure to control undocumented migration rather than against foreigners. However, previous incidents linked to similar protests have raised concerns after foreign nationals were attacked and killed.

The government said it was working to maintain peace and assist migrants who voluntarily wished to return to their home countries.

Experts warned that frustrations over unemployment, crime, and economic difficulties could fuel hostility against migrants.

As the deadline approached, many foreign nationals remained uncertain about their safety, with fears that political tensions could turn into violence.

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