At least seven Mozambican nationals have died following a wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, according to the Mozambican government, as anti-immigration violence continues to spread across parts of the country.
Authorities in Mozambique said around 800 Mozambicans were affected by violence that erupted in Mossel Bay on Friday. Five victims were reportedly killed in direct xenophobic attacks, while two others died in a road accident while returning to Mozambique.
The violence forced approximately 300 Mozambicans to flee South Africa over the weekend, while nearly 500 others were relocated to temporary shelters in the Western Cape as repatriation efforts began.
South African police confirmed they are investigating the deaths of two men at an informal settlement in Mossel Bay but have not yet released details about their identities or nationalities.
Mossel Bay mayor Dirk Kotze condemned the attacks, describing the situation as deeply troubling amid reports of killings, burned homes, and displaced families.
The unrest has also claimed the lives of other foreign nationals living in South Africa. A Pakistani businessman, Naeem Hassan, was killed on Monday in Vereeniging while attempting to move his truck from a yard during the unrest.
In a separate incident, Bangladeshi trader Zumur Kormokar was shot dead during an armed robbery at his shop in Nquthu on Saturday. Reports indicate the attackers stole cash and valuables before fleeing.
While authorities have not officially linked the deaths of the Pakistani and Bangladeshi businessmen to the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the incidents have heightened fears among immigrant communities across the country.
The latest violence has reignited concerns over rising anti-foreigner tensions, illegal immigration protests, and the safety of foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.
