Johannesburg, South Africa (Running Africa) — South African authorities have intensified security measures across the country ahead of a June 30 deadline set by anti-migrant groups demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country, as concerns grow over the potential for renewed xenophobic violence.

The heightened security response follows weeks of unrest that have resulted in attacks on migrants, forced displacement, property damage, and at least two confirmed deaths. Officials say additional police officers have been deployed across all nine provinces, while the military has been placed on standby to support law enforcement and protect critical infrastructure if the situation escalates.

Government authorities say the increased security presence is aimed at preventing further violence, maintaining public order, and protecting both citizens and foreign nationals following reports of intimidation, looting, and vigilante-style attacks in several communities.

The unrest has already had regional consequences. Several African governments, including Malawi, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe, have begun repatriating citizens or processing the return of nationals seeking to leave affected areas. More than 3,000 people are reported to have fled the violence or requested assistance to return home.

Security officials have also warned against the use of weapons during demonstrations and stressed that lawful protest must remain peaceful. Authorities say anyone involved in criminal acts, incitement, or attacks on communities will face legal consequences.

The latest tensions have renewed debate over South Africa’s long-standing challenges of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and migration policy. Analysts note that anti-immigrant sentiment has periodically flared during periods of economic hardship, often leading to violence directed at foreign nationals from other African countries.

Human rights groups and regional observers have called for calm and urged authorities to address both immediate security concerns and the underlying socio-economic issues that contribute to recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence.

As the June 30 deadline approaches, governments across the continent are closely monitoring developments, with fears that further unrest could strain regional relations and deepen the humanitarian impact on affected communities.