R5k Bail For Operation Dudula Member Who Called For Xenophobic Attacks In Voice Note
On Wednesday, 6 April, a 36-year-old man appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on charges of inciting public violence and breaching the Cyber Crimes Act for allegedly publishing harmful messages.
Philani Gumede, according to the State, prepared and forwarded a voice message to members of Operation Dudula.
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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said the letter reportedly instructed Operation Dudula members in Durban to gather and “remove Foreign Nationals and their goods and lock up the shops.”
Gumede was released on R5000 bail, with the conditions that he not use his social media accounts to promote violence against migrants, that he report to the investigating officer whenever he wants to leave Durban or the province, and that he report to his local police station every Friday between the hours of 6:00 and 18:00.
Gumede is scheduled to appear in court again on May 24. Gumede is thought to be a member of Operation Dudula, a group that rose to popularity in Johannesburg after focusing on alleged illegal immigrants.
On Sunday, April 10th, the group is set to begin its activities in Durban. Members of the group will march to the Home Affairs office to demand that they fulfil their jobs, according to Dan Radebe, the group’s vice-chairperson.
