Shops shut in Durban CBD as March and March protest violence and security fears grow
Businesses in Durban's central business district have closed their doors due to fears of violence and looting from anti-immigration protesters. Private security firms and local business owners report significant economic disruption and safety concerns.
Why it matters
The incident reflects growing social tensions regarding immigration and the resulting impact on local economic stability in South Africa.
Public Order Police outside the Home Affairs Durban Refugee Reception Centre on Che Guevara Road on Thursday.
Most Durban businesses have shut operations in anticipation of any attacks and looting by anti- immigration protestors on Thursday.
Protestors allegedly attacked the VFS Global Home Affairs Visa Application Centre in lower Berea. Subsequently, there were at least six-armed guards split into groups outside the office on Linden Road.
Guards declined entry to the road to members of the public. The extent of the damages to the office was unknown.
Ranger Security, a private security company, reported that protesters reportedly fired shots in the Linden Road area and attempted to force their way into the office. The company advised business owners and residents to remain on high alert and avoid confrontation.
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