Gauteng police bust human trafficking ring, rescues 26 Ethiopians

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Fifteen naked individuals suspected to be Ethiopian nationals held captive inside the house were rescued when police but a human trafficking ring in Sandringham, Johannesburg.

Eleven other victims were transported to the hospital for medical treatment.

This follows a joint operation between the police, Gauteng Hawks, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and a private security company.

According to the Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Philani Nkwalase, authorities responded to a tip-off from neighbours about suspicious activities at a residence on Luster Road.

He said preliminary investigation by the joint team revealed that the victims broke open a window and burglar bar and escaped.

“Few were rounded up in the area close to the crime scene while others escaped. Further investigation led to the arrest of three suspects, who were allegedly involved in human trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm.

Undocumented individuals processed as trafficking victims

“The suspects were found with a 9mm P Tokarev pistol, one magazine, and no ammunition.

“The matter was referred to the Gauteng Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation for further exploration, and the 26 undocumented individuals are currently being processed to determine their status as trafficking victims.

The suspects will appear in the Johannesburg magistrates court on Monday, to face charges related to kidnapping case. Additional charges of human trafficking or smuggling will be finalized after all victims have been interviewed,” he explained.

Nkwalase urged the public to report to the authorities any person seen without wearing clothes in the area as they may be linked to the incident.

Meanwhile, a 19-year-old woman was rescued after being swept away by strong river current at the Nkomazi river in Tonga on Friday.

The young lady was attempting to cross the overflowing bridge on the road heading to Phiva, when she was washed away but managed to hold on to a reed in the middle of the river, Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed.

“A good Samaritan witnessed the incident and promptly informed the police, and various role players were summoned, including the Search and Rescue team of the SAPS, Disaster Management, and local officials. A police helicopter was also brought in and it assisted a great deal in the rescue operation,” Mdhluli added.

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Acting police provincial commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended all role players for their swift and heroic efforts in rescuing the woman.

The General also issued a cautionary message to the public, urging them to refrain from attempting to cross swollen rivers and dams during this rainy season as it poses a significant risk to their lives.

“The woman was fortunate to be alive, but we urge the public not to take chances in these hazardous conditions as they could easily become victims themselves,” warned General Mkhwanazi.