Omanghana
The United States Mission to South Africa has urged American citizens to stay away from large gatherings and demonstrations following anti-migrant protests that have disrupted parts of Durban and Johannesburg.
The nationwide security alert, issued on October 9, 2026, comes amid reports of vehicles being set alight, businesses being looted and roads being blocked. Americans have been advised to monitor local developments and avoid areas where protests are taking place.
In Durban, affected locations include the central business district, Davis Lane, Dr. Pixley KaSeme Street and parts of Durban South. The U.S. Consulate General in the city temporarily closed its physical office amid the unrest.
Reports from the city indicated that at least 14 vehicles were torched, access to a refugee processing center was blocked and foreign-owned spaza shops were looted.
In Johannesburg, disturbances were reported in Soweto and at major intersections. At least 10 vehicles were reportedly set ablaze, while accounts of gunfire between groups heightened security concerns. Police riot units used rubber bullets to disperse protesters and clear roadblocks.
The unrest followed a Constitutional Court ruling and a subsequent Department of Home Affairs directive concerning the processing of asylum applications. The directive required authorities to resume processing applications regardless of an applicant’s initial legal entry status.
Anti-immigration groups opposed the measure, arguing that it would increase pressure on jobs and public services. Unemployment affects roughly one-third of South Africa’s workforce, adding to tensions surrounding immigration.
Although the Department of Home Affairs subsequently withdrew the directive, demonstrations continued, with protesters demanding a reversal of the underlying court ruling.
South Africa remains under a U.S. Level 2 travel advisory, which calls on Americans to exercise increased caution because of risks including crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest.
The mission advised citizens to avoid marches and spontaneous gatherings, keep a low profile and follow local news and police updates for information about security conditions and road closures.
Travelers were also urged to adjust their routes when unrest develops and remain alert to opportunistic crime, including smash-and-grab incidents, particularly in congested areas.
Source: Omanghana
