The group has repeated its call for increased police visibility during its operations and dismissed claims that it is acting unlawfully. Civil society organisations, including Kopanang Africa, have taken the matter to the High Court in Johannesburg, accusing Operation Dudula of mistreating foreign nationals and violating their rights.

Operation Dudula has consistently denied allegations of violence and collusion with state authorities. Its President, Zandile Dabula, insists the group is not breaking the law and that its focus is on prioritising South Africans in sectors such as informal trading.

“Here we are talking about people who came to the country illegally, occupying spaces where South Africans are supposed to be. Informal trading must be reserved for South Africans,” Dabula said. “They can't claim that we are violent in our operation when, in most cases, there's police visibility. Yes, it's true we don't have any collusion with them, but they are visible.”

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--