Public Interest SA Raises Alarm Over Threatened Anti-Foreigner Mobilisation in Mpophomeni

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Durban, South Africa. 27 March 2026 - Public Interest SA expresses grave concern following credible reports of an organised mobilisation in Mpophomeni township, outside Howick in Kwa-Zulu Natal, where groups are reportedly planning to conduct door-to-door actions targeting foreign nationals on Sunday.

Such actions, if carried out, would constitute a serious violation of the rule of law and fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Any attempt to forcibly remove individuals from their homes on the basis of nationality is unlawful and risks escalating into violence, with potentially devastating consequences for affected communities.

We are particularly concerned by indications that local law enforcement capacity may be insufficient to respond effectively to the situation. This underscores the urgent need for immediate intervention and reinforcement by higher levels of the South African Police Service, as well as coordination with provincial authorities.

Public Interest SA calls for:

• The urgent deployment of adequate law enforcement resources to Mpophomeni to prevent any unlawful activity;

• Clear public communication by authorities affirming that vigilante actions will not be tolerated;

• Community leaders and civil society actors to actively discourage participation in any unlawful mobilisation;

• The protection of all residents, regardless of nationality, in line with South Africa’s constitutional and international obligations.

South Africa’s democratic order is founded on dignity, equality, and the rule of law. Allowing mob justice or xenophobic violence to take root undermines these principles and erodes social cohesion.

We urge all parties to act with restraint and responsibility. Preventative action at this stage is critical to avoid harm and uphold the values that bind our society.

Issued by: Public Interest SA

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