IT IS very disappointing to hear that police arrested dozens of Zimbabweans living in the streets next to the Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg.

This kind of policing is likely to promote xenophobic convictions that foreigners are criminals or stealing jobs.

Last year we witnessed violent attacks on foreigners. It is important that our police lead by example in protecting the rights of foreigners. We must acknowledge that xenophobic policing is an obstacle to African unity.

South Africans, including the police, must respect the rights of asylum seekers and refugees.

Malose Langa, Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, Braamfontein