I AM very concerned about the threat of a new spate of xenophobic attacks in South Africa after the World Cup.

I AM very concerned about the threat of a new spate of xenophobic attacks in South Africa after the World Cup.

I have received a number of reports from foreigners living in Gauteng, saying they are being threatened with violence if they do not leave South Africa after the tournament.

One report mentioned that such threats were voiced publicly at a meeting in the Cullinan area.

It is imperative that we, as a nation, take these rumours and threats seriously.

The minister of police must ensure that the SAPS do not relax their vigilance after the world football tournament, but remain alert in case violence erupts.

A concrete plan of action should be in place in order to react appropriately if these threats were to materialise.

I believe that it is the duty of all public representatives to bring this discussion into the open. It should be made abundantly clear that any incident of xenophobia will be responded to immediately and in the harshest manner possible.

People should be told that violence against foreigners is completely unacceptable.

Obviously we must not be alarmist, but there is no way we can allow ourselves to be caught unawares as we were two years ago.

Too many lives are at stake for the government to ignore the talk on the streets.

Kate Lorimer, MPL, DA spokesperson safety and security, Gauteng