Gauteng police have launched a criminal investigation into Operation Dudula and its leader, Zandile Dubula, following the death of a one-year-old who was reportedly denied medical treatment.
The development comes after growing criticism of the movement, which has been accused of blocking foreign nationals from accessing services at public healthcare facilities.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) described the campaign as “barbaric” and pledged to support residents in Soweto and elsewhere whose constitutional rights have been violated.
EFF Johannesburg regional chairperson Nkululeko Dunga said the party maintains a clear position on immigration, stressing that all individuals in the country should be documented and accounted for.
However, he criticised Operation Dudula for what he described as vigilante tactics that undermine the rule of law and disrupt public services.
The party highlighted the case of Grace Banda, who was allegedly turned away from multiple clinics in Alexandra with her sick child, who later died.
The EFF also condemned reports of pregnant women being forced to give birth outside clinic gates due to Dudula members blocking access.
In a statement, the party accused the police of failing to act against the group, saying law enforcement had effectively allowed members to harass patients, healthcare workers, and even schoolchildren. It also warned clinic and hospital managers against enabling such practices.
Police confirmed on Sunday that a case had been opened at the Alexandra police station. Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said an inquiry docket had been registered and would be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority once investigations are complete.
Facebook Comments