South Africa tightens security ahead of June 30 deadline

The South African government has stepped up security measures ahead of the June 30 deadline set by anti-migrant groups demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said law enforcement agencies are prepared for any eventuality, adding that authorities will closely monitor any protests to prevent violence, intimidation, and acts of vigilantism.

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the deadline as unlawful and urged calm, stressing that concerns over migration must be addressed within the framework of the rule of law.

The increased security comes as thousands of foreign nationals, including Malawians, Zimbabweans, Mozambicans, Nigerians, and Ghanaians, seek repatriation amid growing fears of xenophobic attacks.