WATCH | June 30: ‘We’ll be ready this time’

Huge security operation launched as authorities insist they won’t allow repeat of July 2021 riots

28 JUN 2026, 10:23

1 min read

Malawian nationals gather near North Beach in Durban as they prepare to return to their home country following weeks of uncertainty and displacement. Many of those leaving were among hundreds affected by recent tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which forced families to flee their homes and seek temporary shelter. Carrying their belongings and waiting for transport, the group reflects the human impact of displacement, migration and the search for safety and stability amid growing concerns about xenophobic violence in South Africa.

Malawian nationals gather near North Beach in Durban Malawian nationals gather near North Beach in Durban as they prepare to return to their home country following weeks of uncertainty and displacement. Many of those leaving were among hundreds affected by recent tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which forced families to flee their homes and seek temporary shelter. Carrying their belongings and waiting for transport, the group reflects the human impact of displacement, migration and the search for safety and stability amid growing concerns about xenophobic violence in South Africa.Picture: Sandile Ndlovu

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South Africa is leaving nothing to chance in the countdown to the June 30 “deadline” set by campaign organisers for illegal immigrants to leave the country, vowing that the riots that rocked the country in July 2021 will not be repeated.

In a wide joint effort to avoid violence ahead of dozens of anti-immigrant marches due to take place on Tuesday, nearly 10,000 volunteers have been mobilised to closely monitor their communities, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, the epicentre of the protest action.

Police are relying on thousands of ears and eyes on the ground as part of their operational strategy. They have enlisted “ambassadors of safety” — including private security companies, businesses, religious and cultural leaders, as well as unions — to shore up a united effort to ensure the country remains stable, peaceful and safe in the coming week.