Operation Dudula march in Durban not yet given green light - eThekwini

The group has announced its protest would be held on Sunday and said it had been given the go-ahead by city officials.

"Apparently, the matter is being handled internally and the City will then go to the office of the City Manager for approval or not," says Municipal spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela.

"We subscribe fully to the constitution of the Republic of South Africa that grantee the right for everyone to march, but is it our responsibility to ensure that everything happens within the law, but we also have got a responsibility of guarding against anything that may pose threats to the rights of other citizens." 

Operation Dudula's controversial stance on foreign nationals has come under fire.

It insists its activities are about safeguarding jobs for South Africans and reducing crime.  

READ: Court grants bail to Operation Dudula member accused of inciting violence

At the same time, residents of Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg, are blaming the crime in their area on foreign nationals who they say are in the country illegally.

There have been chaotic scenes outside the local police station, where over 150 residents have gathered.

They say they want Police Minister Bheki Cele to take action. 

Community leader Andrew Maleka says crime remains high and police are doing nothing about it. 

He says they want to see the area being policed every day, with officers going door-to-door. 

"We are going to remain here and wait for Bheki Cele to come."