The death toll in the anti-immigrant violence that rocked South Africa in May has risen to at least 62 according to police sources. Earlier the figure had been given as 56.

The victims were mainly from Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe, although South African nationals are also reported to be among the dead. Most of the deaths occurred in Gauteng province in the economic and industrial heart of the country, where the violence began on 11 May before spreading to other provinces.

No attacks or deaths have been reported for several days and it seems the worst of the violence is now over. Nearly 1,500 people have been arrested in connection with the violence.

Attention has turned to the tens of thousands of people who fled their homes and communities in fear of attack and are now living in makeshift shelters, community halls, churches and tented camps across the country.

National and international human rights and humanitarian organisations have criticised conditions in the camps and are calling for the displaced to be reintegrated into their communities. However many victims say they do not want to go home until their safety is guaranteed. Further, immigrant leaders have warned of retaliatory attacks by foreigners due to frustration and fear.

In Cape Town hundreds of immigrants

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Wanted in Africa, part of the Wanted Worldwide network, is a website in English for expatriates in Africa established in 2006. We cover Europe's news stories that may be of interest to English speaking residents along with tourists as well. Our publication also offers classifieds, photos, information on events, museums, churches, galleries, exhibits, fashion, food, and local travel.
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