Gauteng High Court Bans Operation Dudula from Acting Against Foreign Nationals

In a landmark judgment, the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has issued an order prohibiting Operation Dudula from targeting or acting against foreign nationals in South Africa.

The court ruled that the movement’s actions — including blocking immigrants from public services, conducting street “raids,” and intimidating or assaulting people — are unlawful and unconstitutional.

What the Court Said

According to the judgment, Operation Dudula and its members cannot:

• Block or prevent any person from accessing healthcare services at clinics or hospitals.

• Chase, harass, or intimidate immigrants in communities or workplaces.

• Conduct any raids, vigilante patrols, or street actions targeting foreign nationals.

The court emphasized that only the police and relevant government departments have the authority to enforce immigration laws. Community groups and private citizens are not permitted to take the law into their own hands.

Why It Matters

This ruling effectively bans Operation Dudula’s vigilante-style operations, which have drawn widespread criticism for fueling division and xenophobia in South Africa.

Human rights organizations welcomed the decision, saying it reaffirms the constitutional right to dignity, equality, and access to healthcare for all residents, regardless of nationality or immigration status.

Background

Operation Dudula, which began as a community movement claiming to fight crime and illegal immigration, has often made headlines for controversial actions — including confronting foreign traders and healthcare workers. Critics have long accused the group of promoting xenophobic violence under the guise of activism.

Looking Ahead

The court’s order sends a strong message that vigilantism has no place in South Africa’s democracy, and that all issues related to immigration must be handled by legal authorities, not private citizens.