MOSSEL BAY, Western Cape – Order has been restored in Mossel Bay following a violent weekend in the Asla Park informal settlement at KwaNonqaba that claimed two lives, destroyed at least 55 structures, and forced numerous families to flee their homes.
The unrest was triggered by allegations that a local construction company was employing undocumented immigrants. While authorities confirm the situation is now contained, recovery and humanitarian operations remain ongoing for those impacted.
Leon van Dyk, Portfolio Chair for Mossel Bay Community Safety, confirmed that displaced residents are receiving comprehensive humanitarian assistance. “Displaced individuals are receiving comprehensive humanitarian support including daily meals throughout collaboration with NGOs, churches and community partners, basic necessities and relief supplies. Also then access to medical care and basic health services which may be required,” van Dyk said. He added that municipal departments, including community development, remain deployed on site, and affected families are being temporarily accommodated at undisclosed locations.
Community leaders and officials have called for legal accountability regarding employment practices while firmly rejecting violent responses. Cameron Dugmore, ANC MP, stated: “Violence is never a solution. But we must insist that the law is applied and a clear distinction between those who are lawfully in our country and those who are not documented and who are illegal immigrants. That process must be undertaken and we should as community leaders appeal for calm and for peace.”
Despite these assurances, affected immigrants report that documentation offered no protection during the attacks. One displaced resident recounted: “These people they don’t care about the documentation. You got the ID or you got a passport, they just come and hit you, hit everyone… They break everything. I got nothing with me.” The individual described losing all personal belongings, being left with only the clothes they were wearing, and witnessing assaults occur in the presence of police. “I’m not happy. I don’t think I will come back here,” they added.
Authorities have arranged buses to transport displaced individuals who wish to return to their countries of origin. The Western Cape Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the incidents or ongoing investigations.
As humanitarian partners continue to deliver aid, local officials are urging residents to pursue immigration concerns through lawful channels and to support community stability during the recovery phase.
