A foreign national was beaten to death by a mob of around 50 people during a march in Durban, South Africa, on Thursday, according to police. The killing occurred amid rising tensions over immigration, with the city experiencing protests against foreign nationals and recent incidents of violence and looting.
Police said two people approached a man standing by the roadside before a crowd of approximately 50 people attacked him. The man, estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, was pronounced dead at the scene. His nationality and the motive for the killing have not been established.
The attack took place in central Durban during a march. Police said the assault occurred in the vicinity of the demonstration, but authorities did not have information about the issue that prompted the march.
Durban has witnessed protests against foreign nationals for several months, with tensions escalating in recent weeks. Around two weeks ago, a march opposing migrants was followed by two days of riots and looting in the city. Police faced difficulties in containing the violence.
Following the deterioration in the security situation, soldiers were deployed in central Durban. During the unrest, 14 vehicles were set on fire, while several shops and commercial establishments were looted or set ablaze. The incidents affected local businesses and public safety.
On Wednesday, drivers associated with e-hailing services also held a march in the same area of Durban amid protests against foreign nationals. The demonstration was linked to the March and March movement, which has been organising protests against undocumented immigrants in various parts of South Africa for several months.
However, available information does not establish a direct connection between Thursday's killing and the movement or any specific demonstration. Police have not confirmed the motive for the attack. Any link between the killing and a particular organisation or group would require further information from the official investigation.
Recent violence against foreign nationals in South Africa has raised broader concerns about their safety. Protests also continued for several weeks earlier this year, following which thousands of people from other African countries left South Africa.
The latest violence in Durban and the killing of the foreign national occurred against this backdrop of heightened tensions. However, the victim's identity and nationality have not been disclosed, leaving it unclear which country he was from.
Police have released limited information about the incident so far. Further details about the identities of those involved, the possible motive for the killing and subsequent legal action remain unavailable.
