LAGOS, Nigeria – Nigerian authorities reported Sunday that two citizens were killed last month during violent anti-immigrant protests in South Africa. The individuals were targeted in attacks linked to demonstrations against foreign nationals, according to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The deaths occurred on June 28, two days before an informal deadline imposed by protesters demanding that foreign workers leave the country. One was reportedly killed by police officers, while the other was attacked by unidentified individuals, officials stated.
As of the latest update, South African police had not responded to inquiries from The Associated Press regarding the incidents.
Protesters in April and May cited unemployment, crime, and strain on public resources as justifications for targeting African migrants. The resulting violence led Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi to repatriate their citizens and formally protest to South African authorities.
“These two killings occur amid a broader pattern of unwarranted violence against foreigners in South Africa,” stated Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry. She emphasized that the attacks perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Nigerians, many of whom contribute positively as workers and residents.
Historical records indicate that South Africa has experienced recurring tensions over migrant populations, including a 2008 series of xenophobic attacks that left over 60 fatalities, condemned by international human rights organizations.