A sense of calm has returned to the Durban Central Business District (CBD) on Friday, following a night of violent unrest, vandalism, and xenophobic clashes between locals and foreign nationals. The streets, however, told a tale of destruction, with several torched cars lining Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, stripped of parts by opportunistic vandals. The area was a hotspot for violence the previous night, with protesters setting cars and buildings on fire, looting shops, and clashing with foreign nationals.
The violence was not limited to Durban, as similar clashes erupted in Soweto, where 10 cars were torched. In Durban, at least 14 cars were set alight, with vandals targeting the vehicles for scrap metal. Firefighting efforts were evident, with pools of standing water reflecting the attempts to douse the flames. The destruction was widespread, with a significant presence of police in the CBD, and a marked decrease in traffic and pedestrians.
The clashes were sparked by a directive from the Department of Home Affairs, instructing refugee reception offices to receive applications in person from people wanting to apply for asylum. However, the department withdrew the contentious asylum intake directive to refugee reception centres on Friday, in an apparent attempt to ease tensions. The move comes as authorities seek to address concerns around the intake of asylum seekers.
Despite the calm, traffic disruptions were reported on the N2 north and southbound lanes between Umlazi and the Higginson Highway, after an early morning blockade prevented motorists from passing. The scene was cleared about an hour later, allowing traffic to flow freely once again. Motorists were urged to exercise caution when traveling through the area.
The police presence in the CBD remained heavy, with officers working to maintain order and prevent further incidents. The situation in Durban and Soweto highlights the ongoing tensions between locals and foreign nationals, with xenophobic violence flaring up in several areas. Authorities are working to address the root causes of the violence and prevent future incidents.
The impact of the violence on local businesses and residents is yet to be fully assessed, but it is clear that the unrest has caused significant disruption and distress. Efforts to rebuild and recover are likely to take time, with the community coming together to support those affected by the violence.
As the situation in Durban and Soweto continues to unfold, authorities are urging calm and restraint. The withdrawal of the asylum intake directive is seen as a positive step, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to address the underlying tensions and prevent future incidents of violence.
Key points
- The Department of Home Affairs withdrew its directive for in-person asylum applications.
- At least 14 cars were torched in Durban, and 10 in Soweto.
- A heavy police presence remains in the Durban CBD to maintain order.
