Police have defended their use of teargas and force outside the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
They say officers acted within the law after members of Operation Dudula became “unruly” and attempted to force their way towards the venue.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says while Saturday’s demonstration outside the Nasrec Expo Centre began peacefully, tensions escalated shortly after 11am when protesters ignored repeated instructions from public order policing officers.
“We have long maintained that we do not have a problem when people protest their grievances, but they must do so within the confines of the law. We will not allow any lawlessness, barricading or blocking of roads.”
The group wanted to highlight ongoing issues pertaining to undocumented foreign nationals in the country, but the situation quickly intensified.
Protesters are being arrested at the Dudula march outside the G20 Summit venue, where over a hundred civil society groups are protesting, demanding wealth taxes, debt relief, and an end to fossil fuel use. Tune in to #eNCA, channel #DStv403. #G20 pic.twitter.com/75FSGcMaif
— eNCA (@eNCA) November 22, 2025
Two members of Operation Dudula were arrested on charges of public violence and assault, and one police officer was injured and taken to hospital.
Mathe said they believe the group's actions were meant to block the motorcade of heads of state and dignitaries trying to access the venue.
“Public order policing officers have the powers to enforce the law, and they will do so without fear or favour,” she said.
Operation Dudula has vowed to push back, even as a police officer lies in hospital.