Hawks nab 3 people in connection with suspected human trafficking of 26 men

JOHANNESBURG - The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation known as the Hawks have arrested three suspects believed to be linked to a human trafficking ring. 

This is after 26 men, suspected to be Ethiopian nationals, were rescued from a house in Sandringham, Johannesburg.

It is understood that the men were held against their will. Preliminary investigation found that the victims broke open a window and burglar bars and escaped.

Authorities said they arrived at the house following a tip-off from neighbours about suspicious activity.

Eleven victims, found naked and some badly injured, were rushed to hospital.

The remaining 15 have been subjected to interviews as part of the probe.

The Gauteng Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Unit that led the operation also recovered a firearm at the scene

“The suspects were found with a 9mm P Tokarev pistol, one magazine, and no ammunition,” said the Hawks’ spokesperson - Philani Nkwalase.