Four to Appear in Emalahleni Court Over Mpumalanga Spaza Shop Looting as 200 Somali Nationals Seek Protection
Fear, chaos and uncertainty swept through parts of Witbank after anti-immigration demonstrations erupted into violence, forcing more than 200 Somali nationals to seek refuge at a local police station. Now, four Mpumalanga residents are expected to appear before the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court in connection with the looting of Somali-owned spaza shops.
Police confirmed that the suspects will appear in court on Monday after they were allegedly found in possession of goods believed to have been stolen during the attacks.
The violence unfolded on 11 July 2026, when demonstrations organised by the March and March Movement reportedly escalated into the looting of four Somali-owned spaza shops. According to police, business owners were also subjected to intimidation as tensions flared.
The unrest prompted more than 200 foreign nationals to seek protection at the Witbank Police Station, fearing for their safety amid the escalating violence.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said the four suspects were arrested after officers allegedly discovered items belonging to the affected spaza shops in their possession.
The accused are facing charges of possession of suspected stolen property.
Police have urged affected spaza shop owners to formally open criminal cases to enable investigators to pursue those responsible and strengthen the ongoing investigations.
The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of foreign-owned businesses during periods of anti-immigration unrest, with authorities now under pressure to ensure accountability while restoring calm in the affected communities.
The four suspects are expected to make their first appearance in the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court as investigations continue.
