South African police investigate Malawian man's death after Pietermaritzburg protest

Police in South Africa are investigating the death of a 29-year-old Malawian national who was attacked after a protest in Pietermaritzburg on Friday. The man was found near a river with head and mouth injuries, and authorities opened a murder case. A local councillor said the victim's family identified him as a Malawian national.

Police stated they could not confirm nationality until officials from the man's home country were notified. The Malawian government said it was investigating reports of the death.

30 deadline South African police are tightening security nationwide ahead of a June 30 deadline set by anti-migrant groups for undocumented foreigners to leave. The groups issued the ultimatum to nationals of Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, and Mozambique, though the demand has no legal basis.

Weeks of attacks have left at least two people dead and prompted several African countries to send aircraft to repatriate thousands of their citizens. Hundreds of Malawians have gathered at a center in Pietermaritzburg since Friday seeking repatriation.

Political context and past violence The tensions coincide with campaigning ahead of local government elections scheduled for November 4. During voter registration over the weekend, gunmen killed four people linked to political parties. South Africa has experienced repeated episodes of violence against foreigners and foreign-owned businesses.

More than 60 people died in anti-migrant riots in 2008, with additional violence recorded in 2015, 2016, and 2019.