Xenophobic Attacks in Addo Claim Third Zimbabwean Life

A 24-year-old Zimbabwean, Apology Mandiudza, has died following xenophobic attacks in Addo, South Africa. His death marks the fourth immigrant fatality related to violence that erupted after the murder of South African Jaune September. Family members remember Mandiudza as gentle, while challenges in repatriation for the deceased are discussed. No arrests have been made yet regarding the incidents.

In a tragic development, Apology Mandiudza, a 24-year-old Zimbabwean, succumbed to injuries sustained during xenophobic attacks in Addo, South Africa. Mandiudza passed away at Livingstone Hospital last Tuesday, approximately nine days following the brutal incident in Valencia. He became the fourth immigrant casualty stemming from vengeance-seeking mob violence that erupted on May 25, sparked by the murder of South African Jaune September, aged 22. Two other deceased victims are believed to be Zimbabwean, while the third is reported to be Malawian.

Despite community outcries, no arrests have been made in connection with September’s death or the mob that targeted immigrants in retribution. Mandiudza, originally hailing from Zimbabwe, had recently started work on a local citrus farm and had plans to marry his South African partner. His niece, Pauline Mhlolo, illustrated Mandiudza’s gentle demeanor and expressed heartbreak over his untimely death. “I saw him lying helplessly in his bed at Livingstone Hospital. He was not responding to our voices,” she shared, reflecting the family’s anguish at losing a beloved relative.

The violent confrontations led to numerous injuries among migrant workers, with countless women and children forced to flee their residences for safety. Many of these displaced families sought refuge at Addo Police Station and a church hall in Gqeberha. Immigration officers from the Department of Home Affairs conducted inspections on June 1, resulting in the arrest of hundreds, while 127 individuals chose to return to their home countries voluntarily.

As the community mourns, Jaune September’s funeral took place peacefully on Saturday, drawing significant attendance. Local ward councillor Xolani Jonas urged immigrants to reconsider their return to affected areas. Chris Mapingure, chairman of the Zimbabwe Migrants Support Network, highlighted the complications faced in repatriating the remains of the three murdered Zimbabweans. The costs are steep, at around R32,000 for each body to be sent back to Zimbabwe. Mapingure has been seeking financial assistance from the local Zimbabwean community, but notes that much work still lies ahead.

The unfortunate death of Apology Mandiudza underscores the ongoing violence and xenophobia faced by immigrants in South Africa, particularly following the events surrounding Jaune September’s murder. The lack of arrests raises significant concerns about safety for those living in vulnerable communities. The challenges in repatriating the deceased highlight the broader impacts of xenophobic sentiments on both individual lives and community dynamics.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com