The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations has described the current mob violence against foreigners in South Africa (SA) as unfortunate not only to SA but also Lesotho as the immediate neighbour.

Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa was addressing members of the National of Assembly on Wednesday.

Mr. Tsekoa said there are Basotho who are South African citizens and there are also Lesotho nationals staying in South Africa and therefore the attacks also concern Lesotho.

He said so far reports from the Lesotho Embassy in Pretoria show that most of the attacks are meant for people from countries such as Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

However, he announced with regret the death of one Mosotho man, Mr. Semapo Thaabe of Pitseng Leribe who died during these xenophobic attacks, adding that investigations regarding the cause of his death are still continuing.

He said the Lesotho Embassy is working together with the victim's family and Alexandra police to ensure that the deceased's body is transported back home, adding that the Embassy is also working with other concerned sectors in South Africa to ensure that the attacks do not affect Basotho.

The xenophobic attacks have given criminals a chance to engage in disruption and looting of people's properties, he said, adding that it is unfortunate that the attacks are being done by Africans on other Africans.

The Minister therefore said the Lesotho Government is prepared to render support and assistance to the Government of South Africa in every way possible to intervene in the attacks.

He expressed hope that the Government and people of South Africa will soon find solution to the situation.

In conclusion, Mr. Tsekoa passed condolences to the deceased's family on behalf of the Government of Lesotho.

Source: LENA 21/05/2008