By Mapaballo Borotho
- Five suspects have been arrested in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal, following an alleged looting attempt as nationwide protests against illegal immigration get underway.
- Police say they remain on high alert and have warned that criminality and violence will not be tolerated.
- Meanwhile, the government has urged protesters to demonstrate peacefully, saying its priority is to protect everyone in South Africa.
It is finally the day of the highly anticipated nationwide protests against illegal immigration in South Africa.
While protest organisers and law enforcement authorities have urged demonstrators to protest within the confines of the law, some individuals have already allegedly attempted to engage in criminal activities.
Just hours into the demonstrations, five suspects were arrested in Hammarsdale, near Durban, following an alleged looting attempt.
One suspect was arrested inside a tuck shop, while the remaining four were cornered and arrested as they attempted to flee.
The suspects, aged between 14 and 27, are expected to face charges of malicious damage to property and business burglary. They are currently being processed and are expected to appear in court soon.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda urged residents participating in the protests to refrain from violence, intimidation and criminal activities.
“We are urging residents who will embark on marches to refrain from acts of violence, criminal activities and intimidation. As much as police are out there to safeguard the marches, they will be enforcing the law, and no lawlessness will be tolerated,” said Netshiunda.
Police remain on high alert across the province, including at Durban’s King Dinuzulu Park, where protesters have begun gathering.
Authorities have also warned that no weapons will be permitted during the demonstrations.
"We cannot throw gas. Respect the people that are marching."
— Kaya News (@KayaNews) June 30, 2026
A Commanding SAPS Officer addresses the Public Order Police unit at the King Dinizulu Park in Durban.
KJ #KayaNews https://t.co/EEF89EwgKq pic.twitter.com/e8VbGyvQnv
Situation remains calm in Gauteng
Meanwhile, the situation in Gauteng remains calm yet tense as the protests are set to get underway.
In parts of Rosebank and Randburg, taxi activity appears to be lower than on a typical working day, while traffic continues to flow freely.
This is despite protests already having taken place in areas including Soweto and Germiston on Monday.
No fatalities have been reported so far.
Government urges peaceful demonstrations
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Mamoloko Kubayi has emphasised that today is not the final day of government’s efforts to repatriate undocumented immigrants.
Her remarks come after scores of foreign nationals sought assistance at their embassies on Monday, seeking refuge and transport to return to their home countries.
Kubayi said government’s immediate priority is ensuring the safety of everyone living in South Africa.
She stressed that the state is not targeting its own citizens but is focused on maintaining peace, stability and public order.
Kubayi also called on marchers to work together with law enforcement officials to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful.
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