Law enforcement officers will remain deployed across eThekwini even after Tuesday’s anti-illegal immigration marches passed without major violence, loss of life or widespread damage to infrastructure, the municipality said on Wednesday.
The continued deployment comes as March and March, one of the groups behind the 30 June protests, said it would hold demonstrations every Thursday across the country until government takes action to remove undocumented immigrants from South Africa.
The 30 June marches were part of nationwide protests by groups calling for stronger action against undocumented foreign nationals and for foreigners in the country illegally to leave before the movement’s self-imposed “deadline”.
In Durban, the protest was preceded by a dispute between March and March and eThekwini Municipality over the march route, with police later helping to resolve the impasse.
The city eventually approved an alternative route, and SAPS, Metro Police, private security companies and community policing forums were placed on high alert across the city, including business districts, townships and major transport routes, amid fears that the demonstrations could trigger the kind of unrest seen in July 2021.
Mayor Cyril Xaba commended residents, organisers and law enforcement agencies on Wednesday, saying the outcome showed that mass demonstrations could be held without major disorder.
“As the City leadership, we are pleased with the conduct of residents who participated in the marches held across eThekwini. We are encouraged that there were no major incidents involving loss of life or widespread damage to infrastructure. This demonstrates that communities can exercise their democratic rights responsibly while preserving the safety and stability of our City,” said Xaba.
Across South Africa, the demonstrations were largely peaceful but were marred by isolated incidents of looting, attempted looting and clashes in some areas.
Xaba thanked law enforcement agencies for maintaining order in eThekwini.
“Our appreciation goes to the men and women in uniform who worked tirelessly to monitor developments, manage crowds, and protect residents. Their vigilance, commitment, and swift response capabilities contributed significantly to the peaceful outcome witnessed across eThekwini,” he said.
He said a few isolated incidents were reported in Clermont and other areas. Law enforcement officers responded swiftly and successfully contained the situations, preventing any escalation, the municipality said.
Xaba said the city would continue working with communities and security agencies to maintain stability.
“The events of the day reaffirm that partnership between communities, law enforcement, and government remains our strongest defence against instability. Together, we have demonstrated that it is possible to uphold democratic freedoms while protecting lives, property, and the future of our City,” he said.
