South African Court Bans Anti-Migrant Group Operation Dudula from Harassing Foreigners

The Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg has issued a landmark ruling restraining the controversial anti-migrant group Operation Dudula and its leaders from intimidating or attacking foreign nationals living in South Africa.

Justice Leicester Adams, who delivered the electronically circulated judgment, declared the group’s actions unlawful and unconstitutional, stressing that only authorised immigration or police officers can demand identity documents from residents.

The ruling, secured through a legal challenge by Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia (KAAX) and allied civil society organisations, also bars Operation Dudula from obstructing access to schools, hospitals, or workplaces. The court warned the group against inciting xenophobic attacks or engaging in hate speech targeting foreign nationals.

Justice Adams further directed the South African government to enforce the ruling and implement the National Action Plan to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, including the creation of an early warning system to detect xenophobic threats.

Welcoming the judgment, the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) described it as a “monumental step forward” in protecting the rights of migrants. NUSA President, Smart Nwobi, said the verdict reaffirms South Africa’s commitment to equality, human dignity, and justice for all residents, irrespective of nationality.

The decision follows a series of recent xenophobic incidents allegedly instigated by members of Operation Dudula, prompting renewed calls for authorities to act decisively against vigilante groups operating outside the law.