SOUTH AFRICAN law enforcement agencies have dismantled a human trafficking ring in Sandringham, Johannesburg, resulting in the rescue of Ethiopian nationals who were reported to have been held captive in a residential property.
This joint operation between Sandringham SAPS, Gauteng Hawks, and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) resulted in the rescue of 26 men and the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to human trafficking Thursday night.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Philani Nkwalase revealed that authorities responded to a tip-off from neighbours about suspicious activities at a residence on Luster Road, Sandringham.
Upon arrival, they found 15 naked individuals, suspected to be Ethiopian nationals, held captive inside the house. Other eleven (11) victims were transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
“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.”
“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.”
Nkwalase shared that interviews concerning the ongoing investigations and strategies to combat human trafficking will proceed on Saturday, enlisting various role players who have been actively involved in tackling these issues.
He further urged residents in the surrounding areas to be particularly observant of individuals who appear disoriented or naked, as these individuals may struggle to communicate effectively in English.
It is revealed that three suspects were arrested and charged with illegal possession of firearms.
This latest sting operation comes on the heels of another alarming discovery earlier last year, where police found 90 undocumented Ethiopian nationals crammed and locked inside a property in Sunnydale Ridge, emphasising the increasing prevalence of human trafficking activities in South Africa.
Recent statistics from the South African Police Services (SAPS) reveal a staggering 11% increase in kidnappings year-on-year, with more than 4,500 cases reported in the third quarter of 2023, translating to roughly 51 kidnappings per day. It is revealed that this disturbing trend predominantly affects women and children, raising fears of further exploitation of these vulnerable groups.
In response to the growing concern, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature has expressed deep concern over the spike in human trafficking incidents, which have alarmingly risen fourfold in recent years.
Chairperson of Committees, Bishop Dulton Adams called for intensified efforts from law enforcement to apprehend and prosecute all perpetrators of these inhumane actions.
“In September 2024, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature launched a province-wide campaign to promote awareness within communities to combat the horrific reality of human trafficking. We continue our roadshows across the five regions of Gauteng, focusing on identified hotspot areas as part of our ongoing commitment to this cause.”
“The GPL remains committed to the protection of vulnerable individuals and uphold the dignity and rights of all people. Together, through collective action and enhanced cooperation, we can bring an end to human trafficking and make Gauteng a safer place for everyone,” said Adams.
Saturday Star