Police have arrested several protesters during a march by Operation Dudula near the Nasrec Expo Centre, where the G20 Summit is taking place.
The group is protesting against illegal immigration, calling on world leaders to address its impact on jobs, crime, and access to services.
Dudula targets world leaders
Operation Dudula President Zandile Dabula said the protest aims to get the attention of global leaders without disrupting summit proceedings.
She emphasised that the movement’s goal is to highlight immigration as a national challenge.
“The only reason we are there is to get the President’s attention,” Dabula said. “We do not want to disrupt the summit, and problems arise only when law enforcement works against communities.”
Civil society groups also protest
According to eNCA, the Dudula march coincides with a large protest by over a hundred civil society groups outside the summit venue.
These groups are demanding wealth taxes, debt relief, and an end to fossil fuel use, reflecting broader economic and environmental concerns.
Dabula said that South Africans continue to struggle to find jobs, access quality services, and feel safe due to illegal immigration.
She urged world leaders to include immigration in summit discussions to support South Africa in tackling the issue.
Legal restrictions against Dudula remain in place
Earlier this week, the High Court in Johannesburg granted a wide-ranging interdict against Operation Dudula.
The order prevents its members from harassing, intimidating, or obstructing foreign nationals.
The court’s decision followed an application by Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia, the South African Informal Traders Forum, the Inner City Federation, and Abahlali baseMjondolo Movement SA.
