Chaos Erupts in Durban as Paint Assault Disrupts Anti-Illegal Immigration Protest

Durban, South Africa – On November 7, 2025, a peaceful march organized by the March and March movement turned chaotic when protesters were doused with buckets of black paint thrown from high-rise buildings. The incident occurred as hundreds of demonstrators made their way from Durban City Hall to Point Police Station in South Beach, demanding the arrest and deportation of undocumented foreign nationals.

The protest began at 10:30 a.m. at Durban City Hall, with participants including members of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and Action SA. Marchers chanted slogans calling for stricter enforcement of immigration laws, highlighting concerns over crime, drug trafficking, and prostitution allegedly linked to illegal immigrants in the area.

As the group proceeded toward Point Police Station, unidentified individuals from nearby high-rises allegedly hurled the paint, covering protesters' faces, arms, and clothing. The substance, described as dark and suspected to be laced with irritants, began to harden upon contact, causing severe itching and discomfort. Forty-eight individuals required urgent medical attention following the assault.

March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma criticized the delayed response from law enforcement, stating that police failed to intervene promptly during the incident. Protesters submitted a memorandum of demands to Colonel Sithole of the police and representatives from the City of Durban, giving authorities seven days to address their grievances.

The event has heightened tensions in the community, with protesters vowing to continue their campaign until action is taken. No arrests related to the paint-throwing were reported immediately following the march.