Chamber condemns violence on foreign-owned businesses in Free State

Violence and looting in parts of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality have been strongly condemned by the Black Business Chamber of the Free State.

Unrest linked to protests over illegal foreign-owned businesses has seen shops targeted, property damaged and economic activity disrupted.

The chamber says while it acknowledges concerns around unfair competition, non-compliance and economic exclusion, it rejects all forms of violence and lawlessness.

It further warns that the destruction of businesses regardless of ownership undermines jobs, investor confidence, and already fragile township economies.

The chamber is calling for the immediate restoration of law and order, protection of businesses and workers, stricter enforcement of compliance, and structured engagement between government, business, and communities.

It urges that grievances be addressed through dialogue and lawful action, not destruction.

#sapsFS [FREE STATE POLICE ARREST 142 FOLLOWING SPORADIC LOOTING AND PUBLIC VIOLENCE IN MANGAUNG] #SAPS POP Unit members has restored relative calm to several Mangaung sections following sporadic incidents of public violence, looting, and malicious damage to property. The… pic.twitter.com/oXluYqjzkd

— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) May 25, 2026