Foreign nationals living along Mahatma Gandhi Road have dismissed claims linking them to criminal activity, as protests against undocumented immigrants unfolded in the city.
The demonstration began at King Dinuzulu Park and is expected to proceed to South Beach, an area known for a high concentration of businesses operated by foreign nationals.
Some residents say they are concerned about being unfairly targeted and stigmatised. Abubakar Kasim and Roger Mulaja have both spoken out, stressing that criminal activity should not be attributed to entire communities.
One resident pointed to ongoing national discussions around organised crime, noting that investigations such as the Madlanga Commission have highlighted issues like drug cartels and syndicates without singling out foreign nationals.
The protest comes amid growing tensions around immigration and crime, with calls from affected communities for a more balanced and evidence-based approach to the issue.