South African Police Rescue 26 Ethiopians from Suspected Traffickers

ZASouth Africa|

South African police have successfully rescued 26 Ethiopians from a suspected human trafficking operation in Johannesburg. The group managed to escape by breaking a window and a burglar bar at a house where they were reportedly held against their will. Following a tip-off from neighbors regarding unusual noises, authorities responded and arrested three individuals suspected of trafficking and possession of an illegal firearm.

The rescued individuals were found naked, which police believe may have been a tactic used by traffickers to demean and control them. Eleven of the rescued Ethiopians required medical attention, although some remained unaccounted for. Philani Nkwalase, a spokesman for the police, indicated that this incident appears to be part of a broader issue of human trafficking in the area.

This alarming development follows a similar case in August 2024, where 82 Ethiopians were discovered living in dire conditions in the same neighborhood. The recent incidents underline ongoing challenges related to human trafficking in South Africa, a country that has seen an influx of immigrants since the end of apartheid.

Authorities are currently seeking to communicate effectively with the survivors to understand the circumstances surrounding their ordeal, as language barriers have posed challenges in gathering information.

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