17 SA men trapped in Ukraine's war-torn Donbas region

Seventeen South African men are trapped in the war-torn Donbas region of Ukraine.

The South African government said it has received a distress call from the group.

Sixteen of the men are from KwaZulu-Natal and one from the Eastern Cape.

The government said the men aged between 20 and 39 were apparently lured to join mercenary forces involved in the Russia-Ukraine war under the pretext of lucrative employment contracts.

It is illegal for South Africans and local entities to give military assistance to foreign governments or participate in armies of foreign governments, unless it is authorised by the South African government.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenay explained: "President Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the recruitment of the young men following their mecernary. The South African government is working through diplomatic channels to secure the return following their calls to return home."

The government said it's working through diplomatic channels to secure the release of the 17 men, while Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to their recruitment.

Magwenya said they are investigating the merits of the case to see how to help.

“The President and the South African government strongly condemn the exploitation of young and vulnerable people working with foreign military entities.”

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.