Violent anti-immigration protests in South Africa have resulted in torched vehicles, looted businesses and several arrests, with unrest reported in Durban and Soweto on Thursday, October 8.

According to African Folder, 24 vehicles were set ablaze during the disturbances, while foreign-owned shops were looted and some businesses were forced to close as tensions escalated.

In Durban, confrontations reportedly broke out following allegations that a foreign national assaulted a South African demonstrator. Police responded by firing rubber bullets and deploying stun grenades to disperse the crowds.

In Soweto, the unrest took a different turn, with several vehicles reportedly set alight and gunfire heard. Foreign-run businesses were also forced to close amid concerns over the safety of traders and their customers.

The incidents come amid growing tensions over immigration and asylum applications in South Africa, where disagreements over the presence of foreign nationals have continued to fuel anti-migrant protests.