Foreigners still at risk - AI

Johannesburg - Foreigners displaced by the xenophobic attacks in May still face a serious threat as the last remaining camps are closed, Amnesty International said on Tuesday.

"The authorities are closing camps despite having no plan for the safe reintegration of those at risk of violence.

"Officials are rejecting nearly all asylum claims using gravely flawed procedures in violation of international law," the human rights group said in statement.

Amnesty International said the South African government should honour its obligations towards those displaced by xenophobic attacks.

"While it is true that those displaced by the May violence initially received temporary protection and access to basic services in camps, they are now at serious risk of further human rights abuses."

Amnesty International said the Department of Home Affairs had accelerated asylum procedures that lacked credibility.

- SAPA