South Africa rejects 'fake' videos of alleged xenophobic attacks
The South African government said many of the videos circulating online and purporting to show xenophobic attacks on foreigners are fake. The statement comes during a tense period that included Nigeria summoning Pretoria's envoy last month.
A government spokesperson said a substantial share of the clips were taken from unrelated incidents or other countries, with some appearing to be AI-generated. Police and a digital forensics unit have set up a joint task force to investigate their origin.
South Africa is grappling with rising anti-migrant rhetoric and the growing visibility of groups such as Operation Dudula in recent weeks. Authorities in neighbouring states acknowledge that individual attacks on their citizens have occurred, while warning that exaggeration on social media is fuelling diplomatic tension.
Nigeria summoned Pretoria's envoy last month over assaults on its citizens. Pretoria now plans to set up a panel to monitor the spread of fake content, while officials work on additional protections for migrants from across the continent.
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