Story highlights 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

(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."

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