JOHANNESBURG - Police have intensified their deployment alongside the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in Soweto following violent protests against undocumented foreign nationals on Thursday night.
Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane said authorities had strengthened their deployment and response after assessing the situation.
Speaking during a visit to the area on Friday morning, Dimpane said police had been on the ground since 6am to monitor developments, support officers and maintain order.
At least ten vehicles were torched and shops were looted during the unrest.
READ | Police step up response after vehicles torched in Soweto, Durban
Dimpane said security forces deployed overnight remained in place, with police continuing to patrol the affected areas.
She confirmed that nine cases of malicious damage to property, three cases of common assault and one case of public violence had been opened following Thursday night’s unrest.
Police said investigations were under way to identify those responsible for the violence and property damage, adding that suspects would be pursued and brought to justice.