Johannesburg:  Mozambique declared a state of emergency to help citizens fleeing attacks against foreigners in South Africa, warning today that the "exodus will worsen" as thousands are still housed in makeshift camps awaiting transport back home.

Meanwhile, South African police reported more violence today, with sporadic incidents reported across the country, including Cape Town and Durban, leaving scores more homeless. No further deaths have been reported.

Cape Town police spokesman Billy Jones said about 400 people had sought shelter on a racetrack after 12 people were injured in overnight attacks on an informal settlement in Cape Town.

"The area is quiet now but we are maintaining a visible presence," he said, adding that many of the displaced had been moved to various community centers and town halls.

At least 42 people have been killed and more than 25,000 foreigners displaced since attacks began earlier this month by South Africans who blame them for crime and unemployment.

Thousands have taken shelter in the winter cold at police stations, churches and other temporary camps. Officials plan to build tent cities on vacant land for them.

Predicting an escalating "exodus," Mozambique Foreign Minister Oldemiro Baloi said the state of emergency had been declared last night as thousands of Mozambicans flooded across the border.

Baloi said about 10,000 people had returned on their own while 620 people arrived yesterday in buses arranged by the consulate in Johannesburg.

Source : PTI