Usindiso Building Fire: Residents Point Fingers at Operation Dudula in Inquiry Testimonies

Allegations emerged during the ongoing commission of inquiry into the Usindiso building fire that residents suspect Operation Dudula’s involvement in the tragic blaze. According to EWN, the deadly fire, which occurred in August, claimed the lives of over 70 people and displaced hundreds. Residents claimed that they saw members of the controversial organisation Operation Dudula celebrating outside the hijacked building in the aftermath of the devastating incident.

As the inquiry delved into the circumstances surrounding the fire, evidence statements from victims suggested that Operation Dudula had conducted raids in the building, targeting and intimidating foreign nationals. The controversial organisation faced further scrutiny as testimonies indicated their alleged involvement in starting the fire. In their supporting evidence, residents suspected that Operation Dudula played a role in igniting the blaze.

Also read: Non-Compliant Venue for Joburg CBD Fire Commission

During Tuesday’s proceedings, residents revealed that they observed Operation Dudula members dancing in jubilation outside the Usindiso building while rescue efforts were underway on the evening of the fire. Jason Brickhill, an attorney representing the Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) of South Africa, stressed the high suspicion surrounding Operation Dudula’s potential connection to the fire. Brickhill noted that the commission had not yet received evidence regarding an investigation into the fire’s origin.

The inquiry took a brief adjournment, awaiting a judgment on the potential recusal of Advocate Thulani Makhubela as one of the commissioners presiding over the proceedings. Makhubela faced calls for recusal due to xenophobic posts on his social media platforms, prompting the need for a ruling on his continued involvement in the inquiry.

Also read:

Joburg CBD Fire Inquiry Uninformed About Home Affairs’ Attempt to Deport Witnesses

Picture: X / CityofJoburgZA

Follow us on Google News.