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World Cup could cause race riots, South Africans fear
Ed Harris23 Jul 2009
THE World Cup could lead to soaring illegal immigration and a repeat of the anti-foreigner riots that killed more than 70 people last year, South African officials fear.
There are already up to 5 million undocumented African immigrants among the country's population of 47 million, drawn by the relatively strong economy, says the South African Institute of Race Relations.
Many citizens blame them for the 25 per cent jobless rate and high crime.
The government says it will balance making the cup next year an event for the whole continent, with protecting its borders. It is spending nearly £90 million to streamline entry. Visitors can obtain a visa if they show they have a match ticket, an address in South Africa and a return ticket home.
Immigration officials will run spot checks and deport overstayers. But finding them could be difficult.
George Khola, 36, a Ghanaian who sells fruit at a Johannesburg market, said: "This is the chance. The whole of West Africa will come."
Reader views (1)
Don't confuse race with nationalities and African tribal affiliations.
- Rogan, Irving, 23/07/2009 15:59
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