Johannesburg — Operation Dudula members and several aligned civic groups gathered outside the Nasrec Expo Centre on Saturday, staging a fresh protest as the G20 Leaders’ Summit continues under heavy security. The movement says it is highlighting government failures on illegal immigration, service delivery, and unemployment — issues it argues are being overshadowed as global leaders meet in Johannesburg.
The protest took place near the designated demonstration zone on Nasrec Road, where police maintained a strong presence. Officers from SAPS, JMPD, and national security structures continue to enforce strict perimeters around the venue, which remains one of the most heavily secured sites in the country this week.
Yesterday’s Standoff Still Causing Friction
Saturday’s demonstration follows a tense confrontation on Friday, when police used tear gas and pepper spray to stop protesters who attempted to move beyond the approved protest area. Several demonstrators were arrested during the standoff.
Operation Dudula leader Zandile Dabula, speaking to reporters at the scene yesterday, expressed frustration with the police response. She criticised what she described as disproportionate force used on protesters while, in her view, criminals are allowed to operate with less pressure.
Dabula said the movement would not be deterred by the police action and would continue demonstrating throughout the summit.
Group Lists Immigration, Service Delivery and Jobs as Core Issues.
According to statements made by participants and movement leaders, the protest is driven by:
Concerns about illegal immigration and border enforcement.
Ongoing service delivery failures, including power cuts, water issues and municipal backlogs.
High unemployment, particularly among young South Africans.
Organisers say the timing of the protest is deliberate, aimed at drawing attention to local crises while global media focus on Johannesburg.
Security Lockdown at G20 Continues
Authorities have kept tight control over the area, with NATJOINTS confirming that security perimeters remain fully active. Road closures and checkpoints continue to affect movement around the Expo Centre, and police have emphasised that demonstrations will only be permitted within designated zones.
Despite the tensions, no major security breaches related to the summit have been reported.
Dudula Vows Continued Action
Dabula and other movement figures say Operation Dudula intends to maintain pressure throughout the G20 summit period. They insist their actions will remain peaceful but firm, and they will continue returning to Nasrec as long as the summit is underway.