Soweto, Johannesburg – Tensions flared in Soweto this week as Operation Dudula, a controversial community group, embarked on a crackdown on foreign-owned spaza shops. The group has closed down at least 15 shops since Monday, following a shooting incident that left a 22-year-old man hospitalized.
The violence erupted after a young man, Lusanda Ngxongo, was shot by a spaza shop owner on Saturday. Ngxongo is currently in critical condition in intensive care. His mother, Anna Mnisi, alleges that the shooting occurred after her son accidentally spilled a drink in the shop.
Operation Dudula leader, Zandile Dabula, justified the group’s actions, claiming that communities feel unsafe due to the presence of foreign-owned businesses. Dabula vowed to shut down all spaza shops in the White City area and beyond, asserting that locals should take over the retail sector.
Despite the escalating situation, the police response has been limited. Two police vehicles and a crime prevention warden patrol car briefly arrived at the scene but left shortly after.
The closures have sparked heated debate about xenophobia, unemployment, and the role of law enforcement in addressing community grievances.
