Limpopo police have successfully apprehended two foreign males suspected of engaging in human trafficking.
The arrest, which occurred on Wednesday, 28 February 2024 in Morebeng, follows an extensive investigation into activities that indicated the smuggling of numerous undocumented immigrants into South Africa.
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The operation was carried out by members of the Provincial Tracking team in collaboration with private security companies.
Acting on accurate information, the authorities intercepted two motor vehicles at the Munnik T-junction. The suspects were en route to Gauteng province, travelling along the R81 after passing through the Beitbridge border post.
Upon inspection, officers discovered a total of 24 undocumented Ethiopian male nationals hidden inside a Toyota Fortuner and a Hyundai H1, both with Gauteng registration numbers. It was later revealed that the drivers of the vehicles were also illegal immigrants from Ethiopia.
Preliminary information suggests that the 24 illegal immigrants, aged between 18 and 40, were destined for Gauteng, confirming suspicions of an ongoing smuggling operation aimed at exploiting these vulnerable individuals for profit. As a result, the 24 individuals are now facing charges of contravening the Immigration Act.
Additionally, the two drivers, aged 28 and 30, will be facing charges related to human trafficking and contravening the Immigration Act.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the officers involved in the arrest, stating, “This arrest is a clear demonstration of our officers’ hard work and the seriousness with which we treat all forms of human trafficking and exploitation.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our country does not serve as a destination or transit point for such heinous crimes.”
The suspects are scheduled to appear before the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 01 March 2024.
