Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Hundreds of Mayotte residents took to the streets on Saturday in support of the French island’s ongoing anti-immigration operation. The demonstration was held in response to a recent surge in illegal immigration in Mayotte, which has led to rising tensions and concerns about public safety.
According to a Mayotte resident who participated in the demonstration, “It is the state which set up this operation to allow us to breathe because we are suffocated by insecurity, by aggression, thefts and all kinds of acts. Some people are even killed.”
Mayotte, a small island located in the Indian Ocean, is a French overseas department and has been grappling with a rising number of illegal immigrants in recent years. Many of these immigrants come from neighboring Comoros, which is located just a few kilometers away from Mayotte.
To address this issue, the French government launched Operation Shikandra in February 2021, which aims to crack down on illegal immigration and improve security on the island. The operation has been met with mixed reactions, with some residents expressing support and others criticizing it as a violation of human rights.
Saturday’s demonstration was organized by local residents who support the anti-immigration operation and want to see stronger measures taken to address the issue. Demonstrators carried signs with slogans such as “No to illegal immigration” and “We support Operation Shikandra.”
While the demonstration was largely peaceful, there were some reports of clashes between protesters and police. Despite these incidents, the demonstration was seen as a strong show of support for the government’s efforts to tackle illegal immigration and improve security in Mayotte.
Speaking to African Boulevard News, a spokesperson for the French government praised the demonstration, saying “It is encouraging to see that the people of Mayotte are united in their support for Operation Shikandra. Our government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents on the island.”
The ongoing debate around immigration and security in Mayotte highlights the complex challenges faced by island nations in the Indian Ocean region. As the French government continues to work towards a solution, it will be important to ensure that the rights and needs of all residents on the island are taken into account.
