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Somali shops were looted and some stoned by youths shouting that they must go back home | |
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Friday, May 23, 2008
Somalian shop-owners who live in Dunoon near Milnerton in Cape Town have been evacuated by police and metro police as xenophobic attacks spread to Cape Town last night. Somali shops were looted and some stoned by youths shouting that they must go back home. Residents say a community meeting apparently called by the police to discuss peaceful co-existence with the immigrants failed to materialise as toyi-toying youths caused disruptions.
ANC Parliamentarians were in Dunoon the day before to announce a meeting that will strengthen existing peace between the locals and foreign nationals. It never took place. Instead marauding youths started gathering towards Somali owned shops. Police were called in.
Living peacefully together for years
Most if not all the shops in the area are owned by foreigners of Somali origin. Other locals says they have been living peacefully with the foreign nationals for years, blaming whoever called the community meeting last night.
Late last night the Somalis and a few from other countries were assembled on the other side of the road just outside the township, not sure where they would go. Locals stood watching them across the road not extending any invitation from the other side of the road. A man from Angola says they don't feel welcome any more.
Police spokesperson Billy Jones says there were a number of arrests for looting and damage to property but could not confirm the numbers. The city council has agreed to open a community centre where the group will be temporarily accommodated. Meanwhile reports came in last night that foreign nationals
Source: SABCNews, May 23, 2008