Hawks rescue 19 Ethiopian-nationals from human trafficking

The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime unit says it successfully disrupted a suspected human trafficking syndicate in Mondeor, south of Johannesburg on Friday afternoon.

According to Captain Ndivhuwo Mulamu, the Hawks received anonymous information on Friday regarding suspected human trafficking-related activities in the area. 

"They arrived just in time at a positively identified house in Mondeor where the victims were locked up before they could be moved to an unknown location," said Mulamu. 

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"Upon arrival, an unknown man suspected to have been on guard of the victims, tried to flee and was apprehended. Police rescued nineteen Ethiopian men who were found in separate rooms inside the house, and seized a pistol and ammunition."

The undocumented victims were taken to a place of safety for processing and the arrested suspect is expected to appear before the Booysens Magistrates Court on Monday facing charges related to human trafficking and possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Investigation continues.