Xenophobia interrupts business in Joburg East
"I pay my taxes. I am not involved in any crime. Why should I be attacked?" - Nigerian shop owner.
Several shops owned by foreigners in Jeppestown were Still closed morning, following threats of xenophobic attacks in Johannesburg.
Nigerian shop owner, Mr Anthony Alonge, said he closed his business in Jeppestown because he was scared.
“I have not been attacked or seen anyone being attacked. I also have not had direct threats but I have seen the videos and photos. They are scary,” said Mr Alonge. He urged South Africans to work with the foreigners to solve issues without violence.
“I buy my supplies from local businesses and I pay my taxes. I am not involved in any crime. Why should I be attacked? Let us talk and iron out the issues that might divide us,” said Mr Alonge.
Meanwhile, the Hillbrow SAPS cluster communications officer, Constable Thabo Malatji, said the SAPS is investigating a case of assault after a motorist was attacked by a group of people in Jeppestown yesterday. He could not confirm if these attacks were related to xenophobia.
- Mr Anthony Alonge did not want his photograph taken as he fears being attacked.
