Tinotenda Hove – Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly condemned the recent outbreaks of violence and intimidation targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa, warning that criminal elements are taking advantage of public frustration to fuel chaos and lawlessness.

Speaking on Monday, Ramaphosa said the attacks and protests should not be seen as representing ordinary South Africans or the official position of government.

“These are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting the legitimate grievances, particularly those of the poor, under the false guise of ‘community activism’,” Ramaphosa said.

The South African leader criticised individuals who have allegedly taken the law into their own hands by stopping people in communities, demanding identification documents and carrying out illegal searches.

“Some of these people are assuming functions that only state officials are permitted to perform, including stopping people to check identification and conducting searches of private property,” he said.

“Such lawlessness will not be tolerated, regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are.”

Ramaphosa admitted that illegal immigration remains a major concern for South Africa, saying undocumented migration is placing severe strain on public resources and contributing to instability in struggling communities.

According to the president, pressure on hospitals, housing and municipal services has intensified, particularly in poorer areas already battling high levels of poverty and unemployment.

He also accused some employers of exploiting undocumented migrants by hiring them for lower wages instead of employing South African citizens legally.

“In a country with high unemployment, some employers exploit cheaper, undocumented foreign labour instead of hiring citizens at legal wages,” Ramaphosa said.

He warned that the practice is increasing tensions in communities while weakening labour protections and undermining workers’ rights.

“In tackling illegal migration, we are balancing our constitutional and international obligations with safeguarding national security,” he added.
Ramaphosa further praised South Africa’s Border Management Authority and defence forces for strengthening border controls and clamping down on illegal crossings.

He revealed that authorities intercepted nearly 450,000 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally during the last financial year, as the country battles mounting pressure over migration and security concerns.