South Africa’s Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia, has strongly condemned a wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents, as escalating unrest in Durban has forced hundreds of businesses in the central business district (CBD) to shut down over safety concerns.
The developments come amid rising diplomatic and social tensions following a series of incidents involving foreign nationals, with videos circulating on social media showing individuals being harassed in the city.
Tensions have intensified significantly in Durban’s CBD, where traders and business owners say the situation has deteriorated to a point where normal commercial activities can no longer continue safely. The Durban Central Concerned Business Group warned of what it described as a “collapse of law and order,” citing widespread intimidation and insufficient security presence.
In a formal letter addressed to government authorities and law enforcement agencies, the group said businesses had been compelled to close their doors indefinitely due to ongoing threats and the absence of adequate protection.
“As of 22 April 2026, the Durban business community and other trading communities have been forced to close all shops until further notice due to ongoing unrest and intimidation,” the group stated.
According to the association, the inability of security agencies to guarantee safety has made it impossible for businesses to operate, leaving workers and owners at risk.
“Businesses are not operating because SAPS and Metro Police have not guaranteed protection,” the group added.
The business community further warned that the situation represents a serious violation of constitutional rights, pointing to provisions that guarantee both personal safety and the right to engage in lawful economic activity.
“Section 12 and Section 22 of the Constitution guarantee freedom and security of the person and the right to trade. Right now, neither exists in the Durban CBD,” the statement read.
The group also indicated that many communities have resolved not to reopen their businesses until authorities can provide firm assurances of safety and a visible commitment to protecting lives and property.
“We will not send our staff and families into danger for daily takings,” the group emphasised.
Against this backdrop, Cachalia issued a strong statement condemning the attacks and reaffirming the government’s stance against xenophobia and lawlessness. He described the incidents as unlawful and contrary to the principles underpinning South Africa’s democratic system.
“The Ministry of Police strongly condemns the recent xenophobic acts of violence and intimidation directed at Ghanaian nationals and other foreign nationals within the Republic of South Africa,” he said on Friday, April 24.
“These actions are not only unlawful, but they stand in direct opposition to the values of dignity, equality, and human rights upon which our democracy is founded,” he added.
The minister stressed that no individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, warning that those involved in violence, looting, or intimidation would face the full weight of the law.
“Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Cachalia said.
“All those found to be participating in, inciting, or supporting such criminal conduct will be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts.”
He further disclosed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has been directed to act decisively and without hesitation in restoring order and addressing the ongoing incidents.
The minister also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, urging communities to reject division and embrace peaceful coexistence.
In addition, Cachalia called on community leaders, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in preventing further violence and promoting dialogue.
Observers note that xenophobic tensions have periodically flared in parts of South Africa, often linked to economic pressures, unemployment, and competition over limited resources. However, the current situation in Durban has raised fresh concerns due to its scale and the apparent impact on economic activity.
The closure of businesses in the CBD is expected to have significant economic implications, affecting not only traders but also employees and supply chains connected to the area. Analysts warn that prolonged unrest could deepen financial losses and further strain relations between local communities and foreign nationals.
As authorities work to stabilise the situation, attention is now focused on the effectiveness of security interventions and the willingness of stakeholders to engage in dialogue aimed at restoring peace.
For now, Durban’s once-bustling commercial hub remains largely shut, with uncertainty lingering over when normalcy will return and whether the latest wave of unrest can be contained before it spreads further.
