G20 Leaders’ Summit: Two Members of Operation Dudula Arrested During Protests
Johannesburg – Authorities have detained two members of the anti-foreigner group Operation Dudula following a confrontation as they attempted to march towards the Nasrec Expo Centre, the location of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
On Saturday, 22 November 2025, the initial day of the summit, spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that police prevented the protesting members of Operation Dudula from reaching the venue.
Operation Dudula, alongside several other dissatisfied groups, including the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, organized protests in the vicinity of the Nasrec Expo Centre.
The demonstrators were calling for, among other demands, stricter border controls, the barring of foreign nationals from utilizing public healthcare and educational facilities.
However, as they attempted to advance towards the venue, Brigadier Mathe reported that police pushed the protesters back.
Authorities halted the protesters from entering Nasrec Road, which is utilized by foreign Heads of State and dignitaries to access the G20 leaders’ summit.
“After multiple warnings issued by Public Order Police, the group did not comply with instructions, leading to a confrontation where they sprayed police with pepper spray, threw objects, and physically engaged with officers,” Brigadier Mathe noted.
“One police officer sustained injuries and was taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment.”
Brigadier Mathe confirmed the arrest of two male members of Operation Dudula, aged 46 and 54.
She added that the Public Order Policing unit has filed charges of public violence, assault on a police officer, and violations of a court order against Operation Dudula.
“It’s unfortunate that the force the police are using against us is not directed towards criminals,” expressed Zandile Dabula, the leader of Operation Dudula.
“The issue of illegal immigration is critical… it impacts South Africans, whether in health or education. Our presence here aims to highlight our issues on a global platform and shed light on the challenges in South Africa.”
RELATED: High Court Halts Operation Dudula’s Unlawful Actions Against Foreign Nationals – The Bulrushes
The two-day G20 Leaders Summit concludes on Sunday, 23 November 2025.