The South African authorities have promised to protect foreign citizens, especially Mozambicans, who are victims of xenophobia in South Africa, in what is known as Operation Dudula.

"The South African government does not support that approach. We have always been known as a government led by people who want to negotiate and discuss problems in an attempt to solve them. We do not encourage crime or violence. We encourage dialogue and we abide by the law," said the South African High Commissioner in Maputo.

This operation, which has been going on for more than three weeks, consists of preventing immigrant citizens from accessing public healthcare and education.

Puleng Chaba guarantees that the South African government will bring all those involved in the operation to justice.

"The government's first measure is to educate people about the need to act within the law. And the government will certainly use all its power to ensure that those involved are brought to justice," he said.

The High Commissioner called on people to remain relaxed "and report cases to the local authorities".

"Mozambicans, like other immigrants in South Africa, will receive assistance from our state agencies," he said.

"Dudula" means "expel" or "overthrow" in isiZulu. Operation Dudula is the name of a South African political party. It is known as fascist and xenophobic, and has been associated with violent threats and attacks on legal and illegal migrants.