File: The British government said on Monday there is a high threat of attacks against foreigners in shopping areas in South Africa.
JOHANNESBURG - British citizens in South Africa have been warned to be extra vigilant.
The British High Commission has released a travel advisory for its citizens after violent protests erupted in Tshwane last night saying, "municipal elections will take place on 3 August 2016; you should exercise extra vigilance, avoid political rallies, demonstrations or large gatherings."
Violence spread to several areas including Mamelodi, Atteridgeville, Garankuwa and Hammanskraal.
There are reports of vehicles being stoned in parts of the townships.
Police have been trying to restore calm in affected areas since this morning.
They&39;re angry at the ANC nomination of Thoko Didiza as mayoral candidate for Tshwane.
British High Commission spokesperson, Isabel Potgieter said, "We review our assessment of the threat on a regular basis. It is based on an objective assessment of the safety situation in country."
Potgieter asserted that the safety of the country is kept under constant review and can be changed at any time depending on that assessment.
She also said that reviews and changes take place around significant national events and it is in the interests of both countries that visitors from the UK avoid potential high risk areas and situations.
Potgieter finally declared, "The UK has a responsibility to inform our citizens of potential threats in countries they might be travelling to or living in."
