Press statement: LHR condemns xenophobic violence and calls for calm

The xenophobic violence spreading throughout Soweto and surrounding areas in Johannesburg is indicative of a lack of tolerance and compassion for foreign nationals trying to make a living in South Africa.

Lawyers for Human Rights is shocked and disappointed by the blatant disregard for human life in these attacks and calls for a swift and efficient end to the violence.

So far, at least three people have been killed and over 100 people have been arrested in connection with the looting of both South African and foreign-owned shops in the surrounding area. These deaths were all avoidable tragedies.

Although any situation of violence is complicated and a multitude of factors (including ordinary criminal elements) contribute to the chaos, an overwhelming number of victims are foreign shop owners – giving the attacks an apparently xenophobic appearance.

These latest attacks demonstrate the continuing intolerance of foreign nationals in the country and the opportunistic crime that follows through the looting of their stores when they flee to safety.

We are also appalled by certain police officers who reportedly refused to intervene to stop the violence or in one reported instance participated in the looting of shops.. However, we are pleased by the overall action by police to quell many of the attacks and making more than 120 arrests. It is now important that police conduct a proper and thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served.

LHR will be consulting with victims of the violence to take statements and collect a full account of the situation as it unfolds.

“We hope that police are able to swiftly clamp down on these attacks before it escalates to the scale of the 2008 xenophobic violence. We also ask that South Africans exercise restraint during this time,” said LHR’s Patricia Erasmus.

Those affected by these attacks can contact LHR for advice and assistance on 011 339 1960 or 012 320 2943. Victims of looting can apply at the South African Social Security Agency for a social relief of distress grant.