Operation Dudula continues Orange Grove intimidation campaign
Orange Grove resident accused of house hi-jacking by mob who wants homeownership to be strictly for South Africans.
Members from Operation Dudula descended upon a home in Orange Grove on the evening of May 18, demanding the family leave immediately.
The owner and his wife were not at their 14th Street home when the group gathered outside the premises.
Norwood police, the CPF’s, community in blue patrollers, and CAP Security were all in attendance.
“We are seriously addressing lawlessness taking place in our area and will fix the problem of hijacked houses,” said Prophet Ngwato, spokesperson for the Orange Grove Operation Dudula’s branch.
The family believed to be from the Democratic Republic of the Congo is accused of being house-hijackers by illegally occupying the property. They are also accused of ‘shack farming’, a term used when a residential property has a high number of tenants renting cheap accommodation or being given a small area in which to live.
Angie Nyatyoba, an Orange Grove resident said, “We in South Africa are decent people. We are sick and tired of our city being run by foreigners.”
Dudula members were at pains to point out that they are not violent and have discipline when conducting operations, contrary to the show of force and singing of emotive songs.
Norwood police spokesperson Sergeant Eric Masotsha said, “Anyone who feels intimidated by actions of Operation Dudula is encouraged to open a case of intimidation as soon as possible. Words and threats are dangerous and there must be consequences for people who openly threaten individuals or groups.”
A nearby homeowner, who preferred to remain anonymous for fear of intimidation, said, “I had always felt safe in Orange Grove, but I am filled with dread after witnessing what just happened. I am opposed to any form of bullying and unfair treatment by anyone against anyone else.”
Norwood police dispersed the crowd and agreed to meet with the Operation Dudula representatives at a later stage.
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