RC 261009SAfmElvis Presslin
Friday, 9 October 2026
Violent protests over the Constitutional Court's asylum ruling dominated the episode, with unrest in Soweto, Durban and the Eastern Cape and officials pledging a police and legal response.
- 05:01
Acting National Police Commissioner says provincial commissioners met on the police response to violent protests, and Crime Intelligence has been told to work around the clock to find those responsible for the chaos.
- 05:16
The Home Affairs refugee reception centre in Durban has closed after a second straight day of violent protest; a nearby scrapyard was reportedly set alight and heavy police now guard the premises.
- 05:46
The Constitutional Court's July ruling restored access to asylum for people who fled persecution, war and violence, with claims assessed on their merits rather than rejected for irregular entry, Scalabrini's James Chapman says.
- 05:12
South Africa's minister in the presidency warned against abuse of the asylum system, saying applicants who do not qualify will be removed from the country once Home Affairs has assessed them.
- 05:15
The Inter-Ministerial Committee has urged the public to stay calm and avoid speculation, and will convene an urgent meeting with departments, legal experts and stakeholders on a lawful way forward.