The South African authorities have launched an investigation into the deaths of two Mozambican nationals, whose bodies were discovered on the outskirts of Johannesburg on Tuesday morning. The incident, which is being treated as a possible hate crime, has heightened tensions in a region already grappling with xenophobic violence.
According to a statement issued by the Gauteng Provincial Police, the victims, aged 28 and 34, were found with multiple stab wounds in the informal settlement of Diepsloot. No arrests have been made, and a manhunt is under way for the perpetrators. The Mozambican Consulate in Johannesburg has been informed and is liaising with South African officials.
The killings come amid a broader pattern of attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly those from other African countries. In recent months, there have been reports of sporadic violence in townships and informal settlements, driven by competition for scarce jobs and resources. The South African government has condemned the attacks and called for calm, but critics argue that rhetoric from some political figures has fuelled anti-immigrant sentiment.
The investigation is being led by the South African Police Service’s Serious and Violent Crimes unit. Forensic teams are examining the crime scene, and post-mortem examinations are expected to take place later this week. The Mozambican government has expressed concern and called for a thorough and transparent investigation.
Security analysts point to the long-standing history of xenophobic violence in South Africa, which peaked in 2008 and 2015, resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of thousands. The current incident threatens to further strain relations between South Africa and its neighbours. Mozambique, in particular, is a key economic partner in the Southern African Development Community.
The South African Human Rights Commission has indicated that it will monitor the case and has urged the police to ensure that justice is served. Meanwhile, community leaders in Diepsloot have called for restraint and have organised meetings to address underlying grievances.
This is a developing story. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
