Operation Dudula members arrested for blocking foreigners from healthcare

Africa Melane (in for John Maytham on CapeTalk) speaks with Foster Mohale, spokesperson for the National Department of Health.

Listen below:

Operation Dudula has launched a nationwide campaign to block undocumented foreign nationals from accessing healthcare at public facilities.

This has been condemned by government and rights group, as the constitution allows all who are in South Africa to have access to healthcare.

“No one can be refused healthcare services based on their immigration status or nationalities.”

- Foster Mohale, National Department of Health spokesperson

Several members of the organisation have been arrested after an operation at a hospital, and are being held at Diepkloof Police Station in Soweto.

RELATED: Operation Dudula illegally blocks babies from getting vaccines

Mohale says they have broken the law, as only law enforcement agencies have the right to check the immigration status of anyone in the country.

“As much as we understand the concerns raised by Operation Dudula, which are genuine... we call for them to raise their concerns within the confines of the law.” 

- Foster Mohale, National Department of Health spokesperson

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