Disease threatens thousands fleeing S. Africa

Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, also chairman of the African Union, expressed dismay at the attacks during a mini-summit in Arusha, Tanzania.

"The general feeling of the summit was of shock and disbelief with the current assaults and killings carried out indiscriminately against foreigners in some parts of South Africa," he said at a news conference. However, he said he was reassured by steps taken by the South African government.

The South African police and the National Prosecuting Authority said in a joint statement Friday that cases will be brought to court as soon as possible.

The prosecuting authority condemned the attacks as "unacceptable and violent," and said it "trusts the courts will deal with these cases with the full might of the law, to send a strong message that condemns this criminal behavior."

However, Human Rights Watch said courts have already dropped several cases because of a lack of evidence and called on South Africa not to deport any victims while their cases are pending.

Many of the victims do not possess correct documentation and are hesitant to participate in the justice process for fear of arrest or deportation, the New York-based organization said in a statement.

"For justice to prevail, South Africa should protect these victims, whose testimony is crucial in bringing their attackers to justice," said Georgette Gagnon, the organization's Africa director. "Deporting the victims will send a clear message that xenophobic violence is above the rule of law."

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