DailySun
In a shocking discovery, authorities revealed a suspected human trafficking ring operating in Sandringham, Johannesburg, on Thursday evening, resulting in the rescue of 26 individuals, including 15 unclothed men thought to be from Ethiopia.
This joint operation involved the Sandringham police, Gauteng Hawks, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and a private security company, prompted by local residents reporting suspicious activities at a residence on Luster Road.
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Escape and Rescue
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Philani Nkwalase confirmed that officers arrived to find 15 men imprisoned, discovered naked and in dire conditions. Eleven more individuals were transported to a hospital for medical assistance.
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Preliminary investigations revealed that the captives had attempted to flee by breaking a window and removing burglar bars. Some victims were apprehended nearby, while others managed to escape the area entirely.
Authorities detained three individuals suspected of involvement in the trafficking ring at the scene. During the operation, law enforcement also confiscated a firearm and a loaded magazine.
The investigation has been handed over to the Gauteng Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit for further scrutiny. The legal status and identities of the 26 undocumented individuals are currently being validated as potential trafficking victims.
Community Alert and Ongoing Investigation
Officials have urged the public to report any sightings of unclothed individuals nearby, as they may still be connected to the investigation.
Law enforcement and the Hawks have pledged to enhance their initiatives to break down such operations and protect vulnerable individuals.
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The community is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities. Human trafficking continues to be a pressing issue, and collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the public are crucial in combating this crime.
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