The South African government has vowed to prosecute citizens who engaged in violence, looting, intimidation, and other criminal acts during recent anti-migrant protests across the country.

While authorities acknowledged that many demonstrations against irregular migration were peaceful, they stressed that anyone who exploited the protests to attack foreign nationals, destroy property, or take the law into their own hands would face criminal charges.

Officials said law enforcement agencies are identifying suspects and will ensure they are brought before the courts.

The government reiterated that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the state, not private citizens or vigilante groups. It also warned against xenophobia, hate speech, and illegal attempts to demand identification documents from people suspected of being foreign nationals.

The announcement comes after weeks of heightened tensions, with anti-migrant protests leading to isolated incidents of violence and prompting thousands of foreign nationals, including many Nigerians, to seek safety or return to their home countries.

South African authorities have pledged to protect both citizens and lawful migrants while ensuring that those responsible for criminal behaviour during the demonstrations are held accountable.