Two Nigerian nationals were killed in South Africa last month amid a wave of violent anti-immigrant protests targeting African workers, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Sunday. The deaths occurred on June 28, just two days before an unofficial deadline set by protesters for foreign nationals to leave South Africa.

According to the ministry, one Nigerian was reportedly killed by police officers, while the other died at the hands of unidentified assailants. South African police did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The unrest follows months of anti-immigrant demonstrations that erupted in April and May, during which protesters accused foreign workers of contributing to high unemployment rates, increased crime, and overburdened public services. The violence led several countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi, to organize the repatriation of their citizens from South Africa.

The Nigerian foreign ministry condemned the incidents, stating that the killings occurred at a time when foreigners were disproportionately targeted. It emphasized that many Nigerians living in South Africa are law-abiding and hardworking individuals who have been unfairly stigmatized as criminals.

The recent incidents highlight persistent social tensions in South Africa related to immigration and economic challenges. Authorities continue to face pressure to address the root causes of xenophobic violence while safeguarding the rights and security of foreign nationals residing in the country.