Mokgethi Monaisa, Consul-General, South African High Commission in Nigeria, says the violence in Durban has come to an end and that peace reigns in the city.
Monaisa announced this in Lagos on Thursday at the April Breakfast Forum of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce when he spoke against xenophobic attacks in his country.
“I am happy to announce that the violence in Durban has come to an end and that the government had begun reintegrating displaced persons into their communities.’’
Monaisa said government was working with the UNHCR, UNICEF, as well as non-governmental organisations to provide food, water, health care and psycho-social support for those affected.
He condemned the xenophobic attacks on foreigners living in South Africa, saying it was criminal and unacceptable.
“Government has condemned violent attacks on foreign nationals in the strongest terms.
“These attacks appear to be instigated by elements bent on taking advantage of the unease in communities to serve their political or criminal ends.
“The recent attacks on foreign nationals are threats to our historical achievements as a nation. Moreover, the attacks go against the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution.
“No amount of economic hardship and discontent can ever justify criminal activity associated with these attacks.
“Some criminal elements have taken advantage of concerns of ordinary citizens for their own selfish motives’’, he added.
He said the South African Government had deployed law enforcement officers to affected areas to enforce law and prevent further attacks.
“Since Monday morning, more than 310 suspects have been arrested. The Minister for Defence deployed the military to affected areas to deal with the situation.
“I must hasten to report that this action helped to contain and suppress violence in areas like Jeppe and Alexander Township in Johannesburg.
“South Africa is a multicultural society that welcomes and promotes interaction among people of different backgrounds.
“We cannot forget the hospitality and support we received from fellow Africans during the era of apartheid.
“Government has urged South Africans not to allow a few individuals to reverse and undermine our historical achievements.
“The right to protest is enshrined in our Constitution; that right should not result in the rights of other people being violated.
“South Africa is signatory to various international obligations that protect foreign nationals and refugees.
“As a country that cherishes human rights, we have to protect the basic rights of every human being within our borders, including foreign nationals.
“On behalf of all South Africans, please accept our sincerest apologies during this time as we extend our hand of friendship to you.
“Please be rest assured that South Africa remains a welcoming destination filled with warm people’’, he added. (NAN)
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