South Africa: At least one killed in xenophobic violence in Johannesburg September 8 /update 2

Event

South African police are patrolling Johannesburg's Central Business District, Jeppestown, and Hillbrow following xenophobic violence that resulted in the death of at least one person, and a further five injured on Sunday, September 8. Riot police used rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse crowds who were looting immigrant-owned shops. At least ten people have died in xenophobic attacks since Sunday, September 1. 

Despite a heightened security presence, additional incidents of looting and associated acts of violence, along with protests to denounce the violence, are possible in the coming days. 

Context

Xenophobic violence targeting immigrant-owned shops (looting, fire, stones throwing, etc.) has flared in Johannesburg and Pretoria between September 1-3.

High unemployment in South Africa has stoked local anti-immigrant resentment, as immigrants are blamed for taking jobs that could employ native South Africans and for participating in criminal activity.

Advice

Individuals in Johannesburg, and South Africa in general, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and sites of civil unrest as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.