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Looting Erupts in South African Town as Foreign-Owned Shops Targeted After Deportation Dispute

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Promise Odejide

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Several shops owned by foreign nationals were looted in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on Friday following rising tensions over a controversial ultimatum issued to undocumented foreign business owners.

The incident occurred just days after a deadline given by local authorities for certain foreign traders to leave the town expired.

Six Foreign-Owned Shops Looted

KwaZulu-Natal Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that six foreign-owned shops were targeted during the unrest.

According to him, no injuries were reported and law enforcement officers quickly moved to restore calm in the area.

“Six shops owned by foreign nationals were looted and calm has been restored in the area,” Netshiunda said.

He added that police are currently assessing the situation while investigations continue.

Tensions Linked to Court Challenge

Authorities believe the unrest may be connected to a legal dispute involving Estcourt Mayor Mduduzi Myeza.

The mayor had reportedly issued a 21-day deadline directing undocumented foreign business owners to leave the town.

The deadline expired on May 27, prompting affected traders to challenge the directive in court on May 26.

Police said some residents may have reacted to the legal action taken by the foreign nationals against the mayor’s decision.

Authorities Seek Lasting Solution

Netshiunda disclosed that a meeting involving the mayor’s office, police officials and property owners was scheduled for Friday afternoon.

The gathering is expected to address growing tensions between local residents, foreign nationals and government authorities.

Officials hope the discussions will help prevent further violence and promote peaceful coexistence within the community.

Fresh Concerns Over Xenophobic Attacks

The incident has renewed concerns about recurring anti-foreigner sentiment in parts of South Africa, where foreign-owned businesses have frequently been targeted during periods of social and economic tension.

While no casualties were reported in the latest unrest, the attack has once again highlighted the fragile relationship between local communities and migrant business owners in some areas of the country.

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