Armed Nigerians Confront Xenophobic Militias in South Africa

Some Nigerians in South Africa have rejected an unofficial June 30 deadline to leave and instead armed themselves in self-defence. Reports indicate anti-migrant groups, led by activists such as March and March, have forced their way into homes and hotels where foreign nationals were sheltering. Viral footage shows a family, including a heavily pregnant woman, being chased into the street as at least four African migrants have been killed. Video from one stand-off captures two groups facing each other across a rope line, with Nigerians wielding cutlasses and other light weapons while police try to keep the peace. Several African governments arranged voluntary repatriation for their citizens. But the Nigerians involved have vowed to stay and defend themselves. The Nigerian government has condemned the violence and urged South African authorities to guarantee the safety of its nationals.

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