The Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane, has appealed for peace following violent attacks between foreign nationals and South Africans in the town of Addo.

Mabuyane’s call comes after three individuals lost their lives and ten were injured during an altercation between local residents and foreign nationals yesterday.

According to the police, the community members from Valencia area in Addo mobilised themselves and randomly attacked foreign nationals in the area to what is believed to be an unlawful act of revenge.

The attack followed an incident where a local resident was allegedly murdered after a fight between a group of local residents and foreign nationals outside a tavern on Saturday.

Mabuyane has urged all residents to remain calm and refrain from any actions that may cause any further escalating tensions.

“Violence and retaliation have no place in our communities and often serve to deepen divisions. We must always remember that our strength lies in our unity and shared humanity,” Mabuyane pleaded.

Mabuyane has since reassured the community that law enforcement agencies have been deployed to attend to the issue and are actively investigating the incident and further urged the community to fully cooperate with the law to ensure justice is served.

He added that the province has a proud history of diversity and inclusivity and further called on residents to continue to foster an environment where all individuals, regardless of their origin, feel safe and valued.