Residents of KwaMashu, Durban, took to the streets in a protest on Tuesday, calling for the removal of foreign nationals who own spaza shops in the township.
The demonstrators expressed frustration over what they describe as unfair competition and alleged illegal operations by some foreign shop owners.
Chanting slogans and carrying placards, protesters marched through the area, insisting that foreign nationals vacate their township immediately.
“We are not against anyone trying to make a living, but these shops are taking away opportunities from our community,” said one resident.
Tensions around foreign-owned businesses in South African townships have been an ongoing issue, with residents frequently accusing shop owners of undercutting local businesses.
Local authorities have called for calm while urging dialogue to address the concerns.