Third Zimbabwean Dies After Xenophobic Attacks in Addo

Apology Mandiudza, a Zimbabwean man, dies after mob violence in Addo, marking the fourth death from xenophobic attacks that began on May 25. Investigations have yielded no arrests, and community leaders are seeking help for repatriating the deceased. Immigrant families are currently facing displacement and heightened anxiety in the wake of these attacks.

A tragic series of events continues to unfold in Addo, South Africa, with the death of 24-year-old Apology Mandiudza, a Zimbabwean immigrant. Mandiudza succumbed to his injuries last Tuesday, nine days after he was brutally attacked by a mob in Valencia. His death marks the fourth fatality amid xenophobic attacks that erupted on May 25, sparked by the murder of a local South African man, Jaune September, aged 22.

The identities of the three other victims remain largely unknown, although it has been reported that two were also Zimbabwean and one hails from Malawi. Alarmingly, no progress has been made in the investigation; authorities have yet to arrest any suspects connected to September’s murder or the subsequent vigilante retaliation that claimed these lives.

Mandiudza, who had recently begun working on a citrus farm, was described as gentle and quiet. His niece, Pauline Mhlolo, indicated that he was in a serious relationship with a South African woman and that they were considering marriage. She recalled seeing him in a hospital bed, unresponsive and suffering after the ghastly attack, which occurred despite him not being involved in any incident at the tavern where September was murdered.

The mob violence led to widespread panic, forcing numerous immigrant men to seek medical attention after being assaulted. When the attacks subsided, families, including women and children, were left homeless, many of whom turned to the Addo Police Station and a church hall in Gqeberha for refuge. A recent inspection by immigration authorities led to hundreds being apprehended, and a significant number chose to return to their home countries voluntarily.

On June 1, Jaune September’s funeral was held. It drew a significant turnout and took place without any disruption. Ward councillor Xolani Jonas made a fervent appeal for immigrants to reclaim their homes as stability returned, however, tensions remain high.

Chris Mapingure, who leads the Zimbabwe Migrants Support Network, emphasized the difficulty in repatriating the deceased, stating it costs around R32,000 to transport a body back to Zimbabwe. He is actively seeking financial support within the Zimbabwean community spread across the Eastern Cape but admits there is still a long way to go in garnering enough funds for the three victims’ repatriation.

The tragic loss of Apology Mandiudza highlights the ongoing violence and instability affecting immigrants in South Africa. As the investigation into these xenophobic attacks continues, community leaders are struggling to support those affected, both through emotional healing and practical assistance with repatriation. The necessity for improved safety and understanding between local and immigrant communities remains urgent and critical.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com