Violence erupted between police and Malawian nationals at Sherwood Hall in Durban on Wednesday. Public Order Police deployed stun grenades and rubber bullets to control the crowd. The unrest stemmed from confusion over transportation methods for repatriation.
Men refused to board vans destined for the Lindela Repatriation Centre. They demanded direct transport to Malawi instead of detention facilities. Women and children had already departed on buses earlier in the week. This disparity fuelled anger among the remaining male detainees.
The Department of Home Affairs processed 7,000 individuals at the location. Officials found 1,876 lacked valid immigration status. Violations include visa overstays and undocumented entry. Voluntary repatriation efforts continue alongside mandatory deportations.
Local communities provided tents and toilets for the campers as activists noted the state’s limited material contribution. Many of those camping at the hall had sought protection from anti-immigration groups in informal settlements.
The situation highlights broader tensions regarding immigration in South Africa. Anti-immigration groups have set deadlines for undocumented foreigners to leave.
Image: Malawian citizens demanding to be taken home clash with police at the Sherwood Community Hall in Sydenham, Durban. Credit: EWN
