Foreign patients at Alberton North Clinic were reportedly denied access to medical services from September 9 to 12 after being confronted by individuals associated with the Operation Dudula movement.

According to a resident who wishes to remain anonymous, the incident began on September 9 when a woman loudly demanded that patients produce South African ID cards before entering the clinic.

“I was shocked to my bones to witness such behaviour. Legal foreign residents, with proper documentation, were being treated like criminals,” the resident said.

The resident reported that a separate line had been set up for foreigners, and those in this line were verbally abused with racist and threatening language.

The resident said the confrontation escalated as more individuals joined in, shouting, dancing, and intimidating foreign patients.

“They also started singing and dancing and screaming threats at the foreigners. These people have been coming to the clinic for years, and all of a sudden, they were denied access,” the resident said.

Police were reportedly present at the clinic at one point but left without intervening.

Constitutional rights at stake

South Africa’s Constitution, Section 27(1), guarantees everyone the right to access healthcare services, regardless of nationality or immigration status.

Zweli Dlamini, City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson, confirmed that foreign nationals with valid documentation are entitled to medical assistance in primary healthcare clinics.

“Everyone is entitled to emergency medical treatment, regardless of nationality or documentation status. Foreigners with no medical aid are entitled to free primary health care at government clinics,” Dlamini said.

Operation Dudula linked to incidents

The city confirmed that the incidents were linked to Operation Dudula, which had been active outside the clinic from September 8 to 9, requesting all patients to present identification before accessing healthcare services.

“This has resulted in turning away and denial of access to health care services by foreign nationals who could not produce South African identity documents,” Dlamini said.

Investigation underway

The city also announced that an investigation into the conduct of both clinical and administrative staff at Alberton North Clinic will be launched.

“An inquiry into the conduct and practices of both Clinical and Admin staff is underway,” Dlamini added.

The resident expressed concern about the broader implications for South Africa’s values, calling for respect, equality, and justice for all.

“We are all human beings created by the same God, and every person has the right to medical healthcare,” she said.