South African police said Tuesday they are investigating the killings of two men from Mozambique in the coastal town of Mossel Bay.
The victims, ages 27 and 43, died Saturday. The Mozambique government initially reported five nationals killed as a result of what it called “xenophobic attacks.” South African authorities have not confirmed a motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The deaths come amid heightened tensions over illegal migration. Protest groups have called for stricter immigration enforcement, citing pressure on public services and crime. At least 50 shacks were set on fire Friday in KwaNonqaba, leading to five arrests.
Mozambique said 800 of its citizens were targeted in Friday's violence, and that 300 have already returned home. Several African nations, including Kenya, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, have warned their citizens to remain vigilant.
South Africa is home to more than three million documented foreigners, about 5% of the population. An unofficial deadline for undocumented immigrants to leave the country has been set for June 30, ahead of local elections later this year.