Human trafficking network dismantled, 90 Ethiopians rescued

Police have rescued 90 people who were allegedly victims of a human trafficking ring. SAPS said the victims were living in inhumane conditions in Sunnydale Ridge, Johannesburg.

POLICE have rescued 90 people suspected of being victims of a human trafficking network.

The South African Police Service’s Special Unit (SAPS) said the undocumented nationals were allegedly being held against their will.

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the victims were living in inhumane conditions at Sunnydale Ridge in Johannesburg.

“A multidisciplinary team led by the STF was searching for a victim of kidnapping for ransom when they also discovered undocumented nationals who were found locked up, confined and crammed into rooms.

“Investigations are ongoing to determine how these nationals were trafficked into South Africa,” Mathe said.

She added that among the Ethiopian nationals was the kidnap victim, who was also rescued.

“The victim was kidnapped in Benoni on Tuesday afternoon, where his captors immediately began demanding hundreds of thousands of ransom from his family.”

Police said the Ethiopian nationals were all taken to hospital for medical treatment.

“Two suspected human traffickers and kidnappers who were found on the property have been arrested.

“They are likely to be charged with kidnapping and human trafficking and are expected to appear in Palm Ridge court soon.”

The case has been referred to the Priority Crime Investigation Branch (known as Hawks) for further investigation.