Scenes of violence erupted in Bellville on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, as anti-illegal immigration groups March and March and Operation Dudula demonstrated in the streets.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says several shops were looted during the protests, prompting the deployment of public order police to the area.

SAPS spokesperson Ndakhe Gwala says two people were arrested in connection with separate incidents during the demonstrations.

According to police, an adult foreign national man was arrested for allegedly discharging a firearm in a municipal area. No injuries were reported.

A South African man was also arrested on an attempted murder charge after allegedly assaulting a foreign national with a metal object.

“Both suspects will appear before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court once they have been charged.”

In an earlier update on Wednesday, police said public order officers had been deployed to the area following the protests. Police also registered a case of public violence for further investigation.

“Kindly be advised that public order police have been deployed in Bellville following protest action by members of March and March and Operation Dudula. During the demonstration, several shops were looted and police registered a case of public violence.”