'Leave or Return in a Coffin': Anti-Migrant Threats Trigger Exodus in South Africa

CAPE TOWN, Jun 29: Thousands of migrants are fleeing parts of South Africa amid growing fears of violence after anti-immigrant groups issued a June 30 deadline demanding that foreign nationals leave the country or face consequences. The threats have fueled panic in several communities, with migrants reporting intimidation and attacks.

One Malawian gardener living in Johannesburg said he was warned by two men to leave the country or "leave in a coffin," reflecting the rising hostility toward foreign nationals. Protest groups, including March & March and Operation Dudula, have blamed migrants for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services, while calling for the mass deportation of undocumented foreigners.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the threats and warned that authorities would not tolerate attempts to destabilize the country. He said security forces were on high alert and stressed that attacks on foreign nationals do not reflect government policy, while acknowledging concerns over illegal immigration.

Police are investigating the killings of several foreign nationals, including Mozambican and Malawian citizens, following recent violence in different parts of the country. Hundreds of migrants have reportedly sought refuge in churches and mosques after mob attacks.

According to South Africa's Border Management Authority, more than 13,000 foreign nationals—including thousands of Malawians, Zimbabweans, Ghanaians and Nigerians—have been voluntarily repatriated or deported over the past two weeks. The unrest comes as South Africa continues to grapple with high unemployment, widespread inequality and persistent economic challenges more than three decades after the end of apartheid.