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Media Statement: SAHRC statement on online incitement against foreign nationals
Attention: Editors and Reporters
Sunday, 15 June 2025
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has taken note of social-media messages urging violent “operations” on 16 June 2025 against foreign nationals. We have already alerted the National Commissioner of Police and will keep these calls under close watch, reserving the right to pursue charges under the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 should they amount to criminal incitement.
Sunday, 15 June 2025
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has taken note of social-media messages urging violent “operations” on 16 June 2025 against foreign nationals. We have already alerted the National Commissioner of Police and will keep these calls under close watch, reserving the right to pursue charges under the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 should they amount to criminal incitement.
While the Commission does not dismiss genuine grievances about crime or service delivery, we remind the public that freedom of expression does not extend to speech that incites hatred or violence. Citizens are encouraged to report any alleged criminal or unlawful activity to SAPS and other competent authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands, and to consult the SAHRC Social Media Charter for guidance on responsible online conduct. Together with law-enforcement agencies and civil-society partners, the SAHRC will continue to safeguard the dignity, equality and security of every person in South Africa.
The Commission is encouraged by the confirmation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation "Hawks” that it will urgently to look into this matter.
ENDS
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Understanding PAIA
The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.
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