Human trafficking ringleader on the loose
Police have launched a manhunt for the leader of a human trafficking syndicate following the arrest of six suspects at a brothel and farm in the Free State.
Police raided a farm, allegedly used to house the victims, and a lodge which operated as a brothel.
Interpol received information about men and women trafficked from Lesotho and Bloemfontein to a farm in Odendaalsrus near Welkom.
Provincial police spokesperson, S'fiso Nyakane, says six suspects aged between 21 and 68 were arrested after police raided a farm and lodge.
"On arrival at the given address, five victims were found and rescued. A security guard and a manager at the farm were arrested on the spot."
Nyakane says on arrival at the lodge, a receptionist and a security guard were also arrested.
"Seven of the victims amongst them four females and three males originate from Lesotho whilst the other three females are from Bloemfontein. The victims are being kept at a place of safety."
The police have launched a manhunt for the ringleader of the operation.
"We suspect the owner of the farm and brothel to be the main suspect. We are still searching for him."
A total of ten people were rescued.