The Nigerian Union in South Africa yesterday reported new xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other foreigners in Sternkopf, Namakwa Municipality, Northern Cape Province of South Africa. The recent events are similar to the nasty acts that occurred in South Africa between March and April 2015, claiming the lives of many African immigrants.

The President of the Union, Ikechukwu Anyene, explained that the most recent attack was reported by the Northern Cape Province Chapter Chairman of the Union, Kennedy Osagie, to its National Secretariat. It was also stated that Nigerians were gravely affected. “Two cars belonging to Nigerians have been reportedly burnt and they have been going from house to house looting and destroying their property.”

Mr Ayene confirmed that six Nigerians have taken refuge with their families in nearby Springbok community, but the whereabouts of others affected remain unknown.

Public criticism 

In April about 5000 people, including religious leaders and influential politicians, marched in South Africa’s coastal city of Durban against xenophobia. Marchers in Durban sang solidarity songs, with many saying it was about time that all South Africans stood up for their brothers and sisters because we are all Africans. “It’s so important to show our support because xenophobia should not be tolerated,” one marcher told Al Jazeera.

South Africa which is host to between 2 and 5 million illegal migrants, many of whom are running from African countries with weak socio-economic and political systems, was hit by a wave of deadly xenophobic attacks two months ago. Tension was lowered until now.

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