Authorities in Gauteng have launched a criminal investigation into Operation Dudula and its leader, Zandile Dubula, following the tragic death of a one-year-old who was denied healthcare.
The case has drawn widespread criticism and intensified debates around the movement’s tactics.
EFF Condemns Vigilante Actions
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) slammed Operation Dudula’s campaign, calling it “barbaric” for blocking alleged undocumented foreigners from accessing public healthcare services.
The party vowed to support citizens in Soweto whose constitutional rights were violated.
Speaking outside Alexandra police station, EFF regional chairperson Nkululeko Dunga emphasized the party’s stance on immigration: “Everyone must be documented and accounted for.
The State must have the ability to track every person’s movement in the country.
But this doesn’t mean we must allow lawlessness to raise its ugly head in the guise of some misguided patriotism.”
Dunga added, “The EFF will not allow our public facilities to be hijacked and run through the logic of vigilante groups like Operation Dudula.”
Pregnant Women and Children at Risk
The EFF also condemned Dudula members for forcing pregnant women to give birth outside clinics.
“A young lady, Grace Banda, was denied entrance to all clinics around Alexandra until her sick child died,” Dunga said.
He criticized these actions as political stunts that put human lives at risk.
The party accused the police of failing to prevent Operation Dudula from targeting immigrants, warning that this inaction has emboldened the group to enter schools, harass children, and demand proof of citizenship.
They also cautioned clinic and hospital managers against allowing such behavior.
Police Register Case at Alexandra Station
On Sunday, Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that officers had registered a case at the Alexandra police station. “The police have opened an inquiry docket.
Once the investigation is complete, the docket will be taken to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision,” Masondo said.
The investigation marks a critical step in addressing the vigilante activities of Operation Dudula and protecting the rights of citizens and residents in Gauteng.