South Africa's security forces announced on Monday that more than 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated in recent weeks, as planned anti-immigrant protests and an unofficial ultimatum for undocumented foreigners to leave the country by June 30 have prompted thousands to depart. The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), which coordinates between the police, military, and intelligence agencies, stated, "To date, more than 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated."
Sharp Increase in Repatriations
The latest figures mark a sharp increase from last week, when authorities reported that 15,000 Malawians had been processed. At least 988 Ghanaians and about 600 Nigerians left by plane earlier this month. Several governments, including Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, have organized voluntary repatriation flights and buses after weeks of protests, looting, and attacks targeting foreigners that have left four people dead.
Continued Operations and Security Measures
NATJOINTS said, "This is an ongoing process," adding that specialized units, including K9 teams and the Air Wing, have been deployed to manage the situation. The outflows come as thousands seek to leave over safety fears following citizen-led groups issuing an unofficial ultimatum for undocumented foreigners to exit by June 30. The repatriation efforts continue as authorities work to maintain order and facilitate the voluntary departure of foreign nationals.
