A 61-year-old Kraaifontein man is calling on the government to urgently address South Africa's immigration challenges after he was allegedly assaulted by a mob that mistook him for an undocumented migrant during recent anti-immigration unrest.
Bonaphi Xakeka, who works as a grass cutter, said he was attacked on Tuesday while travelling to work after protesters allegedly targeted people they believed to be undocumented foreign nationals.
"We weren't warned about the shutdown. If I'd known, I wouldn't have gone to work," Xakeka said.
The attack left his work vehicle damaged, and Xakeka estimates it will cost around R8,000 to repair — money he says he cannot afford.
"I use that bakkie to travel to my odd jobs. Now I can't work. I haven't earned anything in two days," he said.
He added that the loss of income has placed additional financial strain on his family.
"My wife hasn't been paid either. My daughter is studying in Cala, and I have to cover her accommodation," Xakeka said.
Meanwhile, Western Cape police have confirmed the arrest of 215 people in connection with the recent unrest. The arrests relate to a range of offences, including public violence and alleged contraventions of the Immigration Act.
The violence has also affected local businesses, with representatives of the Somali community reporting that 45 spaza shops across the province were attacked during the unrest.
Community leaders have condemned the attacks while acknowledging citizens' constitutional right to protest. They have appealed for calm, saying foreign nationals are also members of the communities in which they live and work.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as investigations into the incidents remain ongoing.