SANDF Deploys Troops to Durban CBD Amid Renewed Anti-Foreigner Violence

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has deployed soldiers to patrol the streets of Durban's city centre following reports of renewed anti-foreigner violence. On Monday, shops were attacked and looted, with groups of protesters, some armed with sticks and wearing face coverings, forcing businesses to close and intimidating pedestrians. The incidents occurred on various streets, including Dr Pixley kaSeme Street, Russell Street, and Victoria Street.

According to eyewitnesses, a group of men on Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street demanded that shop owners close their businesses, physically assaulted owners and staff, and stole cash and other items before fleeing. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. However, the Durban Metro Police were initially unaware of the incident, despite the severity of the violence. The police have since promised to investigate and take action.

The SANDF deployment is part of Operation Prosper, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to support police in maintaining law and order in KwaZulu-Natal. A total of 510 soldiers were deployed from October 9 to November 30, 2026, at a cost of R34,082,720. This is not the first time the SANDF has been deployed in Durban, as similar anti-immigration protests occurred in early October, resulting in one death, looted shops, and torched vehicles.

The recent violence has been linked to misinformation about a Constitutional Court judgment on asylum procedures. The government has condemned the unrest, warning that concerns about immigration do not justify vigilantism, looting, or attacks on people and property. Five men have been arrested in connection with the murder and attempted murder of foreign nationals, including the killing of a Ugandan national on October 22.

The SANDF presence in Durban aims to maintain public safety and reduce tensions in volatile areas. President Ramaphosa has assured Parliament that the soldiers will remain on standby to respond to any eventualities. The deployment has been welcomed by local business owners and residents, who are eager for a return to peace and stability in the city centre.

Ground Zero Search and Rescue reported that a group of about 20 protesters moved through the city centre, aggressively forcing businesses to close and demanding that shop owners show them their identity documents. The group was seen banging on shop fronts and chasing pedestrians, creating a climate of fear and intimidation.

The government has urged calm and called for an end to the violence, emphasising that the rule of law will be enforced and perpetrators brought to justice. As the situation in Durban continues to unfold, the SANDF and police will maintain a visible presence to ensure public safety and protect property.

Key points

• President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the deployment of 510 SANDF soldiers to KwaZulu-Natal under Operation Prosper.
• The deployment runs from 9 October to 30 November 2026 and is expected to cost R34,082,720.
• Five men have been arrested in connection with the murder and attempted murder of foreign nationals.