Four South Africans lured to Russia-Ukraine war return as probe into recruitment begins

JOHANNESBURG – Four South Africans who were allegedly lured to Russia with promises of high-paying jobs — only to end up in the Ukraine war zone — have returned home, as police launch an investigation into recruitment networks and government races to bring back the remaining 13 men.

The group arrived at OR Tambo International Airport this week after previously sending a distress signal to the South African government, saying they were trapped in the war zone.

They are among 17 South Africans believed to have travelled to Russia under the pretext of employment opportunities.

Why only four have returned

Independent defence analyst Kobus Marais said the staggered return of the men is likely due to complex logistics and diplomatic processes.

He explained that identifying individuals, securing their release, and arranging transport out of Russia is not straightforward.

“It is a huge logistical exercise to locate them, process their release and get them back via Moscow to South Africa,” Marais said.

He added that the situation may also be sensitive, as the recruitment and deployment of foreign nationals into the conflict is not something authorities involved would necessarily want widely publicised.

Government efforts to bring others home

Thirteen South Africans are still believed to be in the region, with government confirming ongoing engagement to facilitate their return.

Marais said discussions are under way but cautioned that the process may depend on contractual arrangements and legal considerations.

He stressed that authorities have a responsibility to intervene, particularly where citizens may have been misled into illegal activity.

Why the men face investigation in South Africa

The four returnees were placed in police custody on arrival, a move Marais said is consistent with South African law.

Under local legislation, citizens are prohibited from participating in foreign armed conflicts without authorisation.

He said investigators will likely examine not only the men’s actions but also how recruitment took place in South Africa.

“There are indications they were recruited locally, and that in itself would be illegal,” he said.

Authorities are expected to probe possible recruitment networks, facilitators and organisers behind the scheme.

Intelligence value but limited military role

While the men may provide useful information about conditions in the conflict zone, Marais said the South African National Defence Force is unlikely to play a central role in their debriefing.

Instead, the process is expected to involve police, prosecutors and state security structures.

He said any information gathered could help inform future awareness campaigns or training but would not directly affect military operations.

Why South Africans still take the risk

Marais believes unemployment and economic pressure are key drivers behind such cases.

He noted that many South Africans legally work abroad in private security roles, but crossing into active conflict zones is prohibited.

“The moment you become involved in a conflict on the front lines, it becomes illegal,” he said.

He warned that similar cases could continue unless economic conditions improve and enforcement against illegal recruitment strengthens.

For more information, listen to Marais using the audio player below: