South Africa condemns 'fake videos' of alleged xenophobic attacks

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. South Africa condemns 'fake videos' of alleged xenophobic attacks36 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleNomsa Maseko , Africa, JohannesburgandThomas Naadi , Africa, AccraAFP via Getty ImagesAnti-illegal immigration protests have been taking place in major cities in South AfricaSouth Africa's government has condemned the circulation of what it called "fake videos and images" that have been described by some as recordings of attacks on foreign nationals in the country. The call comes as diplomatic tension has increased between South Africa and other African nations following accusations that xenophobic violence is on the rise once again in the country. Ghana's government has written to the African Union (AU) asking the continental body to discuss the issue, which it says is a "serious risk to the safety and wellbeing" of Africans in South Africa.

Nigeria has also raised the issue and has offered to repatriate its nationals amid fears of attacks. Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho and Zimbabwe have also warned its citizens in South Africa to be aware of possible attacks. South Africa responded to Ghana's message saying that it "had nothing to hide".

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This wave of pressure was sparked after video clips were shared online over a fortnight ago that appeared to show vigilante groups harassing people they believed were in South Africa illegally. In one, it was reported that a Ghanaian had been challenged over his status and told to go and "fix his country". 'We have to prioritise South Africans': Anti-migrant movement blocks foreigners from healthcareThe uniformed group targeting foreigners in South AfricaBut briefing the media on Thursday following a cabinet meeting, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said, without specifying which footage she was talking about, that "the fake videos and images are not only fake, but they are intended to undermine the good reputation of South Africa internationally and undermine the country's pursuit of a better Africa agenda".

Thousands of South Africans have been protesting against illegal immigration in major cities in recent days, demanding the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. Protesters have said illegal immigration has had an impact on jobs, housing and crime. Referring to the demonstrations, Ntshavheni said South Africans were within their rights to protest against "the spiralling illegal immigration challenge" but added that violence linked to previous protests was unacceptable.

Xenophobia has long been an issue in South Africa and has been accompanied by occasional outbursts of deadly attacks. But the current protests have been largely peaceful with no official reports of accompanying looting of foreign-owned shops or violence against undocumented migrants. South Africa's government has been stepping up diplomatic efforts to quell growing concern around the continent about rising anti-immigration sentiment in the country.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.