Mozambique Reports Death of Citizens in South Africa Xenophobic Attack

The Mozambican government has said that at least five of its citizens were killed during xenophobic attacks in South Africa, in one of the latest incidents highlighting ongoing tensions involving foreign nationals in the country.

According to official statements, the violence took place in the coastal town of Mossel Bay, where attacks on migrant communities were reported over the weekend. Mozambique added that more than 800 of its citizens were affected, with hundreds displaced as violence escalated in affected areas.

Authorities said around 300 Mozambican nationals returned home voluntarily, while more than 500 others were moved to safer locations within South Africa as repatriation efforts began. Officials also confirmed that additional deaths were recorded, including victims who died while attempting to return home.

The incident is part of a wider pattern of sporadic xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has seen repeated outbreaks over the years, often linked to economic hardship, unemployment, and tensions over undocumented migration.

South African authorities have previously acknowledged concerns over attacks on foreign nationals and have pledged to investigate incidents and restore order, while migrant communities and rights groups continue to call for stronger protection measures.

Mozambique has urged calm while coordinating with South African authorities to ensure the safety and return of affected citizens, as regional governments monitor the situation closely.