Vietnamese citizens in South Africa urged to intensify security

The Vietnamese Embassy in South Africa has advised all Vietnamese citizens residing and doing business in the African country to remain vigilant regarding the current security situation and to avoid travel to areas that are hotspots of instability.

Rioters plunder a shop in Johannesburg, South Africa (Photo: AFP/VNA)

This warning was issued following South Africa dealing with a wave of rioting and looting in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces, along with some other localities.

Vietnamese citizens have therefore been warned not to travel at night unless it is absolutely necessary, with the Embassy advising people to return home before 8 p.m.

The Embassy also announced an emergency contact number for citizen protection through its official website and various social media platforms.

Vietnamese Ambassador to South Africa Hoang Van Loi asked the Embassy's units to take stronger measures aimed at ensuring the safety of people, headquarters, and vehicles, whilst strictly abiding by the Ambassador's regulations regarding travelling amid the complex situation locally.

According to Acting Minister in the Presidency of South Africa Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, as of the morning of July 15, a total of 2,203 people have been arrested for looting and destroying property in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces, with 117 deaths being recorded from violence during the unrest.

The morning of July 15 also saw the South African Defense Force (SANDF) deploy 15,000 troops in various hotspots throughout the African nation.

The South African Government and relevant authorities have held meetings with political parties, religious leaders, tribal leaders, and civil society organisations as they seek a consensus and request that people assist in restoring order and preventing the unrest from spreading to other areas.