South Africa To Deploy Soldiers To Restore Peace

South Africa To Deploy Soldiers To Restore Peace

South Africa will deploy soldiers to reinstate peace in the main city, Johannesburg, to stop the attacks on immigrants.

Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has said that army will also be deployed to flashpoints in KwaZulu-Natal province.

Following the beginning of the conflict earlier in April, 2015, it will be the first troop disposition.

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The country has faced a reaction from other African states over the violence.

Defence Minister told the reporters that many people would "appreciate the decision to bring in the defence force".

Soldiers would not take over the duties of the police officials but would help in upholding order, the Mapisa-Nqakula added.

The Ministry of Defence said they would be disposed from 18:00 local time (16:00 GMT) in Alexandra township, north of Johannesburg.

Four suspects appeared in court today, April 21, over the death of Mozambican Emmanuel Sithole, who was killed in the township at the weekend.

The killing was recorded on camera by a local journalist.

The men were imprisoned in custody, without being asked to plead. A crowd protested outside court, demanding justice for Mr Sithole.

Police say the situation is peaceful now with no new fierce attacks described anywhere in South Africa.

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More than 900 people have been willingly send home to their native countries since the conflict broke out, officials say.

At least 50 Nigerians living in South Africa were attacked during the violence and have lost more than N21m since the xenophobic attacks started.

Federal government has started evacuation of Nigerians. The president-elect, Muhammadu Buhari has expressed support to the steps of current administration.

Source: Legit.ng

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