SOUTH AFRICA: 300 Suspects Arrested Over Xenophobic Attacks

More than 300 suspects have been arrested in South Africa in connection with deadly attacks on foreigners that have forced thousands to flee, the government said Sunday.


"We once again unequivocally condemn the maiming and killing of our brothers and sisters from other parts of the continent," the government said. "No amount of frustration or anger can justify these attacks and looting of shops."

Thousands sought refuge in temporary shelters after mobs with machetes attacked immigrants in Durban.

The attacks in Durban killed two immigrants and three South Africans, including a 14-year-old boy, authorities said.

Heavily armed police have scrambled to stop clashes after local residents accused immigrants from other African nations of taking their jobs.

The government praised law enforcement agencies for stopping further bloodshed in Durban.

"We believe that their commitment to duty has prevented injuries and even deaths that could have happened if they security forces had not acted," it said.