A joint operation between law enforcement led to the rescue of 12 boys and the arrest of a foreign national suspected of kidnapping on January 5.

The accused, from Ethiopia, appeared in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court on May 26.

The case was then remanded for further legal process.

The public prosecutor informed the court that investigations into the matter were complete and the case could proceed.

The charge against the accused will be in accordance with Section 42 of the South African Immigration Act, which strictly prohibits aiding, abetting, assisting, or enabling an illegal foreigner to stay, work, or operate a business in the country.

The State requested that the matter be remanded for disclosure. The defence confirmed the arrangement and raised no objection.

Presiding Regional Magistrate Matshitse ordered that the matter be remanded to July 2.

The court also extended the accused’s bail, and the witnesses were excused and warned for the next court date.

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