South Africa arrests over xenophobic attacks in Durban

After xenophobic comments made by King Goodwill Zwelithini of South Africa in late March, nearly 250 foreigners have been attacked in the country, leading to 17 murder arrests in Durban in the past couple weeks.  Many of the foreigners attacked are refugees, fleeing famine or war. South Africans are afraid foreigners will take their jobs and create rival businesses that would negatively effect their economic status. Not only have individuals been attacked, the businesses of the foreigners have been destroyed and looted and nearly 1,000 migrants have been displaced from their homes due to fear of persecution and violence. Since the King's comments, many migrants have begun protesting and rioting the streets of Durban. The King and his monarchy have retracted some of their statements, fearing the onset of violence. The King made clear that his comments were only made towards foreigners who had no documents allowing them to legally reside in the country for a period of time. South Africa has a history of xenophobia. Since 2008, nearly 65 individuals have been murdered due to xenophobia. The future of foreigners in South Africa is uncertain. By Hannah Higgins

From http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-32249853