Protesters began gathering at Church Square in Pretoria on Monday morning ahead of a planned demonstration against illegal immigration.

The protest, organised by civil group March and March, is expected to begin at 10am, with the city among several locations identified for demonstrations across South Africa.

In preparation for the June 30 deadline informally set by the group, authorities reportedly allocated R600 million towards security operations in collaboration with private security firms.

A multidisciplinary law enforcement contingent was deployed across the Pretoria central business district, with officers stationed around Church Square and other key locations ahead of the demonstrations.

As protesters arrived at the gathering point, some broke into songs and chants, declaring that they were fighting for their country and for the future of their children.

Demonstrators said they were demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the removal of undocumented immigrants from the country.

One of the protesters, Tumisang Mabula, said the government must respond to their demands and enforce existing legislation.

“I’m here to join March and March because it is my moral obligation as a South African to come here and support fellow South Africans who are here to force the South African government to do its job. We are not xenophobic. We don’t hate Africans.”

Mabula added that the group would continue with its campaign until the government responds to its demands. (Arise News)