Foreign nationals living in Zwelihle near Hermanus, in the Western Cape, are living in constant fear after the shocking discovery of a young girl's body in a plastic bag.
The gruesome find has not only shaken the community but also led to xenophobic attacks, with locals pointing fingers at foreigners as potential suspects.
Amid rising tensions, one resident who preferred to remain anonymous expressed disagreement with the violent targeting of innocent foreign nationals.
"We all know they are not the same, so why should we punish them for someone else's sins? The suspect should face the consequences alone, as he was not acting on behalf of foreign nationals to harm the young girl," said the resident.
While the anger against the perpetrator is palpable, some residents are troubled by the mistreatment of foreigners due to the actions of a single individual.
"I want the suspect to face justice for his heinous act, but it is disheartening to witness people being mistreated because of one person's terrible decision," said the resident.
Another anonymous resident expressed frustration with foreign nationals, claiming that they protect one another and called for their expulsion from the area.
"The problem is that they cover for one another. They should all leave our area because we are not safe, we cannot live like this due to people from other countries. They should take their actions back to their own countries."
Residents' anger and frustration culminated in a suspect's house being set alight by the community, demonstrating their demand for justice, but frightening other foreign nationals who were not involved in the crime.
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Gcobani Ndzongana, leader of the Land Party, distanced himself from the protests aimed at driving foreign nationals out of Zwelihle.
"I have received messages from elders asking if I am part of the protest but I made it clear that I was not involved and advised party members not to engage in violence or theft," said Ndzongana.
He urged foreign shop owners to open their businesses, recognising the importance of access to food.
"Our grandparents are diabetic and need food for their medication. We will deal with any criminals attempting to loot the shops, as well as those inciting violence," added Ndzongana.
The Land Party leader assured that his party members have been vigilant in preventing looting incidents over the weekend and will continue to do so.
Confirming the investigation into the murder case, Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Captain Frederick Van Wyk stated that an adult male had been taken in for questioning, while police deployed additional forces to monitor the escalating protest actions.
"We urge those participating in the protests to act within the boundaries of the law, as those found on the wrong side of the law will face decisive action," warned Van Wyk.
As tensions remain high in Zwelihle, the community's demand for foreign nationals to leave their area continues to fuel concerns among township shopkeepers, who fear potential looting incidents.
