afrol News, 20 May - The on-going xenophobic violence against foreigners in South Africa has taken a new and extreme turn as the violence extends to other major cities of the country. Fresh aggressions against the already panicking immigrants have been experienced in the neighbouring city of Pretoria and some townships in Cape Town.

The attacks, which began about a week ago in the city of Johannesburg and neighbouring locations, have resulted in more than 22 deaths, with thousands of foreigners now left homeless. Most of them have sought sanctuary in police stations, churches and community halls.

The worst hit are the Zimbabweans, who fled their country to escape political and economic strives that have massively rocked the once well-off Southern African state. Over 3 million Zimbabweans are believed to be living in South Africa.

This intolerant hostility against Zimbabweans in South Africa has always been supported by claims as well as unfounded accusations that they (Zimbabweans) are behind the escalating crime rate in South Africa and the wide spread of HIV/AIDS.

Government today stepped up action to address the violence. South African President Thabo Mbeki yesterday strongly condemned the attacks and has thus promised to set up an expert team of investigators to establish the cause of the aggression. Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula has promised that all the 13,000 foreigners who are in hiding, would be granted sufficient security and shelter.

Police report that over 290 people have been arrested in connection with the incidents. They however have promised to ensure that the attacks that entail shooting, clubbing and torching come to a stop immediately.

Meanwhile, local and international human rights groups express their shock over the wave of violence against defenceless immigrants. The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) today strongly criticised the current spate of violence. "We are highly saddened by the brutality of this violence. The South Africa authorities should take urgent steps to put an end to this murderous wave of xenophobic violence. They should take all necessary measures to ensure that all individual responsible for murder, rape or any other form of physical violence are brought to justice," noted the President of FIDH Souhayr Belhassen.

For their part, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) strongly blames the government for failing to take the threat of xenophobic feelings seriously.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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