South Africa says it is intensifying efforts to address illegal immigration while warning citizens against taking the law into their own hands, amid growing anti-migrant protests across the country.

Several government ministers held an urgent meeting on Monday following weeks of demonstrations targeting undocumented foreign nationals, whom some groups accuse of contributing to crime and unemployment.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Njabulo Nzuza acknowledged that South Africa faces challenges related to illegal immigration but cautioned against vigilante actions.

"We do have an illegal immigration problem," Nzuza told reporters. "But it should not be that because there is this problem, then we must throw the country into chaos."

Authorities said border controls and workplace inspections are being strengthened, while deportations of undocumented migrants are increasing.

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said a team of deputy ministers would be deployed to assess enforcement operations and improve government visibility in affected communities.

"All we are asking is that it happens within the law," Kubayi said.

Defense Minister Angie Motshekga also warned against self-appointed groups checking people's identification documents, stressing that only law enforcement officials are authorized to carry out such actions.

The government response comes after a citizen-led group issued an ultimatum demanding undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30, raising fears of renewed xenophobic violence.

Last week, hundreds of foreign nationals from countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Somalia reportedly sought protection in the port city of Durban after locals allegedly threatened to force them out.

Fresh protests were also reported in Cape Town and Katlehong township near Johannesburg, where residents marched demanding police verify the legal status of foreign-owned businesses.

The growing anti-migrant sentiment has triggered concern across the continent. Ghana said it plans to repatriate hundreds of its nationals from South Africa this week, with officials acknowledging that many had overstayed work permits.

South African authorities have urged African governments to address economic and governance challenges driving migration to the country, which remains one of the continent's largest economies.