South African troops deployed to end violence

By Paul Simao

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South African soldiers joined police in operations around Johannesburg on Thursday to help end attacks on African immigrants that have killed at least 42 people.

Troops backed police in early morning raids and air force helicopters patrolled Alexandra township after President Thabo Mbeki approved army intervention to quell unrest that has threatened to destabilise Africa's largest economy.

At least 25,000 people have been forced from their homes in 11 days of attacks by mobs that accuse immigrants of taking jobs and fuelling crime. Police say 550 people have been injured in the attacks and 519 arrested.

Mozambique said more than 10,000 of its people had fled back to the country.

Police, supported by soldiers, conducted early morning raids on three dormitory hostels near Johannesburg, the first army involvement to stop the attacks.

Firearms and ammunition were seized and 28 men were arrested. None were immediately linked to the violence, police spokeswoman Sally de Beer said.

The attacks have increased political instability at a time of power shortages and disaffection over Mbeki's pro-business policies. Soaring food and fuel prices helped push tensions to breaking point.

"It is another blow -- although I wouldn't advise panicking at this point in time," said BNP Paribas strategist Elizabeth Gruie of the attacks. "We have to see how the government can deal with that in the very short term."