More than 1,000 immigrants, mostly Malawian nationals, left their homes in Burnwood informal settlement near Durban on Sunday after being ordered to leave by local residents.
The displaced people have since camped in a field in nearby Sherwood. Humanitarian groups supplied blankets, food and other essentials while volunteers prepared meals. Police said about 10 intoxicated local men visited the settlement on Sunday evening and demanded that immigrants depart. Some residents reported being questioned about their nationality and assaulted before fleeing without belongings. Sydenham SAPS spokesperson Simo Joli stated the number at the Sherwood site reached more than 1,000 by Tuesday. Arrangements are under way with immigration authorities and the Malawian embassy for repatriation, with the first group expected early next week. eThekwini Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said officers would patrol the area until repatriation occurs. Ward councillor Remona McKenzie called for municipal intervention and stressed that concerns over foreign nationals must be handled through legal channels.
