I understood what they were saying to each other.

IMO, it's all a matter of personal preference how to use language.
Yes, this use is unusual and for some, not easily understood. But, just as with any language unfamiliar, unless you learn it for yourself, it will all be foreign to you.....doesn't make it any less correct for that individual.

It's simply all just a matter of choice....They choose to use it and we choose to read it.....or not....

(I so want to learn Dutch).

Shangrala