In South Africa, protests against the imprisonment of ex-President Zumas had escalated.
There was looting and violence across the country, including against minorities.
In the meantime the situation has calmed down somewhat.
Johannesburg - According to government reports, 212 people were killed in the violent riots in parts of South Africa.
Many more were injured as a result.
The death toll could rise even further, announced the minister in the presidential office, Khumbuzo Ntshaveni.
Despite further isolated attacks, especially in the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, the situation has now been largely brought under control by the military, so that important traffic axes are reopened.
"The situation in the two provinces is gradually but surely returning to normal," said Ntshaveni.
In total, there have been more than 2,500 arrests so far.
President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the mobilization of 25,000 soldiers who are now also deployed in other provinces.
The violence began with protests against the imprisonment of ex-President Jacob Zuma from KwaZulu-Natal.
He was sentenced to 15 months in prison a week ago for disobeying justice.
The protests quickly developed into large-scale riots. When asked about a pardon for Zuma, Ntshaveni said: "The Justice Minister has made it clear that ex-President Jacob Zuma qualifies for a pardon within three months and three weeks and for a pardon for medical reasons if he applies."
