JOHANNESBURG Violent xenophobic attacks against foreigners nationals in South Africa have finally died down, an official has confirmed. President Jacob Zumas administration reacted fast to the recent attacks, deploying police and soldiers to quell violence against foreigners. Most of the violence in 2009 and subsequent incidents have taken place in poor communities, with perceptions about migrants taking local jobs, trade opportunities, as a drain on public services and involvement in crime, said ANCs head of political education, Tony Yengeni.
Director of the Zimbabwe Exile Forum (ZEF), Gabriel Shumba, said he was pleased by the governments reaction to the violence. While we appreciate the manner in which the government deployed soldiers and police to stop this, we would be grateful if a permanent solution is found, said Shumba.
The minister of police, Nathi Mthethwa, has assured foreigners that such incidences would not happen again. Some 10 men were arrested in July for unleashing violence against foreigners. Nine of them appeared at the Randburg Magistrates court facing attempted murder, housebreaking, theft, grievous bodily harm (GBH), assault and malicious injury to property.
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