South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed citizens on Monday over the ongoing xenophobic attacks in parts of the country.
In a press release, Ramaphosa said, “The recent violent protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals in parts of our country do not represent the views of South Africans or our government’s policy.”
The South African government condemned the violent protests and attacks on foreign nationals and stated that such actions contradict the country’s values and official policies. 
Authorities described the attacks as criminal acts carried out by opportunists who exploit citizens’ frustrations under the guise of “community activism”.
The government warned citizens against illegally checking people’s identification documents and searching private property.
Ramaphosa expressed concern over illegal immigration and said undocumented migration places pressure on healthcare, housing, municipal services, employment, and national security.
The government also accused some employers of exploiting undocumented migrants by paying them lower wages instead of hiring South African citizens, a practice that continues to increase unemployment and labour tensions.
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South Africa strengthened border security through the Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Defence Force. Authorities revealed that security agencies intercepted about 450,000 attempted illegal border crossings during the last financial year.
The government also plans to increase workplace inspections and enforce labour and immigration laws against employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals illegally.
Ramaphosa stressed that corruption involving fake marriages, illegal housing sales, and bribery among citizens continues to worsen the immigration crisis.
Despite growing migration concerns, South Africa reaffirmed its commitment to African unity, refugee protection, regional cooperation, and human rights.
The government also stated that xenophobia, ethnic intolerance, and violence have no place in South Africa. Authorities added that both citizens and foreign nationals must obey the law equally.
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