Operation Dudula women released on warning after clinic incident
Authorities released the women on a warning, even though they face charges for interfering with healthcare access.
They entered the Lilian Ngoyi Clinic in Diepkloof, Soweto, and demanded that patients produce identity documents to prove their nationality.
The women reportedly disrupted services by questioning patients inside the maternity ward.
The suspects allegedly locked themselves inside one of the labour wards. Their actions made staff and patients feel that the suspects violated their rights.
Police were called and arrested the women.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the suspects face charges including contravention of the National Health Act and public violence.
Since June, Operation Dudula has campaigned nationwide to stop undocumented foreign nationals from accessing public healthcare.
They argue that the system struggles under heavy demand and that South African citizens must come first.
Their actions have sparked both criticism from the government and human rights groups, and support from some community members.
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