The South African Government has revealed that about 80 suspected members of vigilante groups accused of carrying out xenophobic attacks and other crimes against migrants have been arrested across several provinces.
The disclosure was made by the Consul-General of South Africa to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, during the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Forum held in Lagos on Wednesday. The event was themed, “The Future of Nigeria-South Africa Relations: Advancing Bilateral Cooperation in a Changing World.”
According to Moroe, the arrests were made in five to six provinces as authorities intensified efforts to restore order and ensure those taking the law into their own hands face justice.
He stressed that the South African government does not support attacks on migrants, insisting that the country’s Constitution protects both documented and undocumented foreigners.
“About 80 people involved in these criminal acts and who are members of vigilante groups have been arrested across five to six provinces, and the law is taking its due course,” he said.
The envoy explained that while some vigilante groups have been demanding that illegal migrants leave South Africa, only law enforcement and immigration officials have the legal authority to enforce immigration laws.
Moroe also dismissed allegations that the South African government was sponsoring attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals, describing such claims as “fake news.”
He maintained that the actions of the vigilante groups do not represent the position of either the South African government or its citizens.
“The government condemns all acts of criminality and human rights violations against any individual, whether South African or foreign, because the Constitution protects everyone. No one is allowed to take the law into their own hands,” he said.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to restoring peace, Moroe said security agencies were working daily to stabilise affected areas and bring all perpetrators to justice.
Beyond the security concerns, the Consul-General called for stronger diplomatic and economic cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa, noting that both nations have enjoyed 32 years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations founded on mutual respect and shared history.
He also acknowledged Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, saying both countries should continue to strengthen their longstanding partnership despite occasional challenges.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Ije Jidenma, represented by Vice-Chairman Mr. Ajibola Olomola, reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to deepening trade, investment and business collaboration between both countries.
The forum was attended by leading business executives, including representatives of South African Airways, MTN Nigeria, the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators, and other stakeholders from the private sector.
Source: The PUNCH
Discover more from NATIONAL BEAM
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
