South African police probe murder of anti-immigrant provincial leader

South African authorities have assigned a specialised team of detectives and crime intelligence officers to investigate the killing of an anti-immigration activist.

Andile Mvuyiselwa Somgaxa, the Gauteng provincial leader of March and March, was shot while in the driveway of his Johannesburg home on 3 July. He later succumbed to his injuries in hospital on 13 July.

March and March claims the attack was linked to its campaign calling for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa, suggesting the killing may have been an act of retaliation.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said the deployment of an experienced investigative team reflects the high priority being given to the case.

She also issued a warning that acts of intimidation, harassment, or violence targeting foreign nationals are illegal and will be dealt with accordingly.

Meanwhile, protesters advocating against illegal immigration say they will continue holding weekly demonstrations until their demands are addressed.