WATCH | More than 3,000 Zimbabweans gather in Pietermaritzburg

The group has established a refugee camp at the park, where families say they fled fearing for their safety amid growing tensions surrounding the protests.

11 seconds ago

Andiswa Mchunu 1 minute read

Repatriation buses arrived at WestmoreParkClub in Pietermaritzburg to collect Zimbabwean nationals as part of the ongoing anti-immigration protests. The transport forms part of efforts to facilitate the voluntary return of those who have opted to travel back to Zimbabwe amid the current situation.Moeketsi Mamane — Repatriation buses arrived in Pietermaritzburg to collect Zimbabwean nationals as part of the ongoing anti-immigration protests. The transport forms part of efforts to facilitate the voluntary return of those who have opted to travel back to Zimbabwe amid the current situation. Photo: Moeketsi Mamane

More than 3,000 Zimbabwean nationals have gathered at a park near in Pietermaritzburg, seeking safety as anti-illegal immigration protests intensify across KwaZulu-Natal.

The group has established a refugee camp at the park, where families say they fled fearing for their safety amid growing tensions surrounding the protests.

Speaking to The Witness, several Zimbabwean nationals described conditions at the camp as inhumane, saying they were living without adequate shelter, sanitation and other basic services.

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We are struggling to survive here.

“The conditions are very difficult, but we have nowhere else to go,” one resident said.

According one Zimbabwean national the camp has rapidly grown as more Zimbabwean nationals continue to arrive at Westmore Park, raising concerns over the humanitarian situation and the need for urgent assistance.

Authorities had not commented on the camp or outlined what support would be provided to those sheltered there.

ALSO READ | WATCH | March over illegal immigration grips Pietermaritzburg

The Witness is on the scene and will continue to provide u

11 seconds ago

Andiswa Mchunu 1 minute read

Akheel Sewsunker

Akheel Sewsunker, has been in the news industry for three years, with a strong focus on digital media. In addition to news reporting, he also writes content focused on professional wrestling, technology, and gadgets. He holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree in English and Criminology. His main areas of interest include tech, gadgets, and gaming, where he combines analytical insight with a passion for storytelling.