Posted on May 23, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

Argus Car Hire South Africa customers are advised to avoid venturing into Cape Town at all costs after recent violent clashes against foreigners spread to Cape Town overnight.  During the exchanges, several people were assaulted and shops were looted.  The attacks broke out after a meeting took place to prevent anti-foreigner violence in the Dunoon Township.

Commenting on the violence, Billy Jones, a police spokesman said:  “Groups within the crowd started to loot shops owned by Zimbabweans and other foreigners.” 

Officials are to meet to discuss how the wave of violence has hit South Africa’s mining industry.  Already, more than 40 people have died and 15,000 people have sought shelter since the violence erupted in the Johannesburg township of Alexandra almost two weeks ago. 

Fears that the violence may tarnish the image of South Africa abroad are well-founded.  The head of South Africa Tourism, Moeketski Mosola has said the government is alarmed by the situation especially as they are preparing to host the football World Cup in 2010.