Mapaballo Borotho
- Two Operation Dudula members were arrested for attempting to disrupt the G20 Summit by forcefully marching toward the venue and blocking key routes.
- A scuffle broke out after they ignored police warnings, leaving one officer injured.
- Police have opened cases of public violence, assault, and contravention of a court order.
Two members of Operation Dudula were arrested on Saturday following a protest near the G20 Leaders’ Summit, in which the anti-immigrant group attempted to forcefully march towards the venue and block the Baragwanath and Nasrec Road.
Operation Dudula is known for its anti-foreign national stance in South Africa, claiming that foreign nationals using public services are putting strain on a system already under pressure.
Their arrest comes as the Gauteng provincial government warned that no criminal activities, violence or disruptions will be tolerated during the G20 weekend, adding that anyone who “tries to do anything funny” will be prosecuted.
National Police Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says the SAPS Public Order Policing (POP) unit has registered a case of public violence, assault of a police officer, and contravention of a court order against the group.
“Dudula members attempted to forcefully march towards the venue and block Baragwanath and Nasrec Road, a route used by foreign Heads of State and dignitaries to access the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
“Following several warnings by Public Order Police (POP) members, the group failed to adhere to instructions, and a scuffle ensued where they sprayed police with pepper spray, threw objects, and pushed around officers. One police officer was injured and taken to a nearby medical facility for medical assistance,” said Mathe.
Police confirmed the arrest of two men aged 46 and 54.
“The NATJOINTS thanks other groupings who protested at the four allocated speakers’ corners situated near the venue today for doing so within the confines of the law.
“With this said, the NATJOINTS will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour to ensure that the G20 Leaders’ Summit takes place in a safe, secure and peaceful environment,” Mathe said.
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