US issues security alert in Durban after violence at Home Affairs
The US Consulate in Durban has issued a security alert following violent clashes between anti-illegal immigration protesters and asylum seekers at a refugee reception center. Police used stun grenades to disperse the crowd after protesters disrupted operations and confronted officers.
Why it matters
The unrest highlights rising social tensions regarding immigration in South Africa and poses safety risks for foreign nationals and diplomatic personnel.
Ask AI 1 min A strong police presence was deployed to the Home Affairs Refugee Reception Centre on Che Guevara Road in Durban on Wednesday where hundreds of foreign nationals were queuing to apply for asylum.
US Consulate General has warned its personnel and citizens to avoid Durban’s central business district after violence and reported looting targeting foreign nationals erupted amid a confrontation at a Home Affairs refugee centre.
The security alert followed clashes on Wednesday outside the Department of Home Affairs’ Refugee Reception Centre on Che Guevara Road, where thousands of asylum seeker s had gathered to submit applications and supporting documents.
The consulate said US government personnel had been instructed to exercise “extreme caution” in the area and divert travel where necessary until further notice.
Tensions escalated when members of the anti-illegal immigration movement March and March arrived at the centre and disrupted operations.
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