DIRCO says SA citizens detained by Israel set to return home

The International Relations and Cooperation Department (DIRCO) says South African flotilla activists are set to return home via Jordan, after being detained by Israel while delivering aid to war-ravaged Gaza.

DIRCO said it's been formally notified by Israeli authorities on the status of the six South African citizens who participated in the recent global flotilla initiative.

Israel had detained more than 470 people who were on board a group of 42 boats that were intercepted in the Global Sumud Flotilla.

On Sunday, DIRCO said a specialist team met with the South African
delegation at the Negev Israeli prison facility.

The department said the delegation was able to confirm that the detainees were in "good health and in high spirits".

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The activists included Nelson Mandela's grandson, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, writer Zukiswa Wanner, and Dr Fatima Hendricks.

At the time, South African authorities said the necessary procedures for their safe passage and return home to the country were advancing steadily.

DIRCO spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, said they've received confirmation that the individuals in question are scheduled to be released from detention and will be repatriated and will be departing via Jordan on Wednesday.

Phiri says DIRCO Minister, Ronald Lamola, extends his gratitude to all relevant parties, "both domestically and internationally, for their cooperation and coordination in ensuring the return of the South African citizens".