The South African government has said it has started addressing attacks on foreign nationals resident in that country by a group of locals that launched an anti-foreigner campaign it calls ‘Operation Dudula.’

The campaign has seen non-South Africans, mostly Zimbabweans, being forced out of their businesses and the attacks intensified over the weekend as dozens of people were chased away in a number of areas including Johannesburg.

Those behind the campaign blame foreign nationals for the rising unemployment rate, and levels of crime.

The campaign has resulted in Zimbabweans living in fear in the neighboring country.

International Relations and Co-operation Minister Naledi Pandor’s spokesperson Lunga Ngqengelele said the matter was being dealt with.

“This issue has got nothing to do with Dirco (Department of International Relations and Cooperation) and it is being dealt with by the police because it is against the South African laws for anyone to be harassing businesses.”

“The issue of checking permits is a government role through a department of labor and employment in South Africa.”

“It’s not done by individuals; hence it is being dealt with,” said Ngqengelele.

Zimbabwe Consul-General to Johannesburg Melody Chaurura said they had engaged responsible authorities in South Africa to ensure the safety of Zimbabweans.

Chaurura added that police intervened and stopped the attacks and there were no new reports of harassment or anyone who has been injured.

She said they will continue engaging responsible authorities to ensure the safety of Zimbabwean citizens.