Soldiers arrive in Durban after anti-immigration protest violence

SANDF soldiers have arrived in Durban after unrest in the city centre, SABC and eNCA reported on October 10. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli requested military support for police the previous day.

Protesters opposed to undocumented immigration looted small businesses and damaged property for a second consecutive day on Friday. Ntuli said law enforcement had been reinforced, including with personnel from outside the area, but escalating violence required additional help.

SABC earlier reported an alleged attack on foreign nationals after a confrontation at the intersection of Anton Lembede and Dr Yusuf Dadoo streets. Protesters accused them of possessing firearms. Police intervened and rescued one of the individuals. The report did not confirm the firearms allegations.

Ntuli said he had asked the police minister for SANDF personnel to be deployed in the province. He also spoke of engaging protest leaders while strengthening efforts to restore order.

The premier warned that continued unrest could undermine investor confidence and job creation. He linked his concerns to a conference scheduled for October 15 in KwaZulu-Natal and urged residents to prevent destruction and looting in the name of addressing genuine concerns.