A sick foreign national was viciously attacked by a rowdy group of South Africans outside an ambulance, with the mob claiming he had no right to receive medical treatment in their country, in the latest xenophobic violence to hit the nation.
The unidentified victim was being loaded into an ambulance when the group descended upon him, hurling abuse and physically assaulting him as paramedics looked on.
“Why are you taking him to hospital? He must go back to his country,” one assailant screamed.
“He has no right to be treated here while our people are suffering,” another shouted.
The mob continued their assault despite pleas from paramedics, who attempted to shield the victim.
The attack has drawn condemnation from human rights groups, who have repeatedly warned of escalating xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly from other African countries.
Section 27 of the South African Constitution guarantees everyone the right to access healthcare services, regardless of nationality, yet foreign nationals continue to face hostility in communities across the country.
Police have been urged to investigate. The victim’s condition remains unknown.