Human Trafficking Ring Dismantled in Sandringham: 26 Ethiopian Nationals Rescued

A coordinated operation by Sandringham SAPS, the Gauteng Hawks, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and a private security firm led to the dismantling of a human trafficking ring in Sandringham, Johannesburg. The raid uncovered harrowing evidence of human captivity, prompting investigations into trafficking and smuggling networks.

Operation Leads to Rescue of 26 Victims

On Thursday, January 9, 2025, authorities acted on a tip-off from neighbors about suspicious activities at a residence on Luster Road, Sandringham. Upon arrival, the team found 15 naked individuals, suspected to be Ethiopian nationals, held captive inside the house.

Another 11 victims were found near the property and transported to the hospital for medical attention. Preliminary investigations revealed that some victims managed to escape by breaking a window and burglar bars.

The operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects alleged to be part of the human trafficking syndicate. During the raid, authorities confiscated a 9mm Tokarev pistol, a magazine, and other evidence linking the suspects to the crime.

The suspects face charges of:

• Human trafficking
• Kidnapping
• Extortion
• Contravention of the Immigration Act

Connections to Other Crimes

One of the victims was identified as part of a kidnapping case reported in Benoni in November 2024. The suspects had allegedly demanded a ransom of R180,000 for the victim’s release.

Additional charges, including trafficking and smuggling, will be finalized after all victims have been interviewed. Interpreters from the Ethiopian Embassy are aiding law enforcement in documenting victim statements.

Provincial head of the Hawks in Gauteng, Maj-Gen Ebrahim Kadwa, lauded the breakthrough as a “testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and stakeholders in combating trafficking and smuggling of migrants.”

The investigation has been transferred to the Gauteng Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Unit, ensuring a thorough probe into the criminal network.

Authorities have urged the public to report any individuals found without clothes in the Sandringham area, as they may be linked to the incident.

This case highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and local communities to tackle human trafficking and its devastating effects on victims.

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