Zandile Dabula, leader of Operation Dudula, has declared that neither the police nor anyone else will stop the group’s mission to remove foreign nationals from hijacked buildings in South Africa. The statement follows a controversial campaign in Johannesburg’s Rosettenville area over the weekend.
Speaking to supporters during the operation, Dabula said the movement would keep taking action if the government fails to address the issue. She accused authorities of ignoring the problem of illegal immigrants occupying government-owned and hijacked buildings, leaving many South Africans without homes.
“Our people are living on the streets, under bridges, and in shacks while illegal foreigners stay in buildings that belong to the government or were taken from rightful owners,” Dabula said. “We are not afraid of the police or anyone. If the government won’t act, we will.”
During the campaign, Operation Dudula members marched through Rosettenville, demanding the eviction of undocumented foreigners from illegally occupied buildings. The group, known for its strong stance against illegal immigration, handed out pamphlets and urged residents to report both undocumented immigrants and landlords involved in building hijackings.
Police monitored the march but did not interfere. Johannesburg Metro Police confirmed they were present to prevent violence and property damage.
Human rights and migrant organizations have criticized Operation Dudula’s actions, calling them illegal and xenophobic. “This is vigilantism disguised as patriotism,” said Nomsa Makhubu, a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch South Africa. “No civilian group has the right to enforce immigration laws or carry out evictions.”
Despite the backlash, Dabula insists the movement is fighting for South Africans who feel neglected by the government. She urged the Department of Human Settlements and Home Affairs to prioritize locals in housing and immigration control.
The Department of Home Affairs has not yet commented on the recent events. However, legal experts warn that such operations could increase tensions and lead to violence in already fragile communities.
Operation Dudula has announced plans to expand its campaign to other provinces in the coming weeks.