Thousands of demonstrators gathered in parts of South Africa to rally against illegal immigration on Tuesday in the biggest migration-related protests since anti-migrant violence broke out in the country in 2008. The demonstrations come after some protest groups set what they called a June 30 deadline for the departure of all migrants who are in the country illegally. The activists blame those migrants for causing unemployment among South Africans by accepting low wages, and for other problems including high crime. South Africa’s government has rejected the deadline, saying only authorities can enforce immigration laws. The most prominent groups opposing illegal immigration include March and March, Operation Dudula and Progressive Forces. President Cyril Ramaphosa met Monday night with leaders of some of the groups and asked them to conduct peaceful demonstrations.

Full report : South Africa deploys police for widespread protests by groups opposing illegal immigration.