( CNN ) Thousands sought refuge in temporary shelters in South Africa after mobs with machetes attacked immigrants in Durban , leaving at least five people dead , an aid group said Thursday . Heavily armed police have scrambled to stop clashes this week after local residents accused immigrants from other African nations of taking their jobs . The attacks in Durban killed two immigrants and three South Africans , including a 14-year-old boy , authorities said . `` There has been an outpouring of support from ordinary South Africans who are disgusted with the attacks not only because they are foreign , or African , but because they are fellow human beings , '' said Gift of the Givers charity , which is helping those seeking refuge . `` We are preparing aid packages for those who may journey onwards to their home countries . '' The charity said about 8,500 people fled to refugee centers or police stations this week because of the violence . That does n't count anyone who fled their homes to other , private accommodations , the group said . It said it hopes the violence is limited to Durban , but assured immigrants that it has a facility in Johannesburg to help those who might need shelter there . `` We have tents and all essential supplies on standby but pray that sanity prevails and this does not become necessary , '' it said . In the past , Johannesburg has been the epicenter of anti-immigrant tensions . In 2008 , scores were killed in attacks in the poorest areas of Johannesburg . Most of the victims were Zimbabweans who had fled repression and dire economic circumstances . In that attack , police arrested more than 200 people for various crimes including rape , murder , robbery and theft .
A charity group is preparing aid packages for those who want to return home . The attacks have left 5 dead -- two immigrants and three South Africans . A 14-year-old boy is among those killed after a mob with machetes targeted foreigners .