Two Ethiopian nationals, a man and a woman, were arrested on June 16 by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) for suspected human trafficking in Meredale, Johannesburg.

JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said that officers following up on information received about human trafficking in the area, paid a visit to Sparrowgate Lifestyle Estate.

“Upon arrival, the complainant showed officers four Ethiopian teenage boys who had allegedly escaped from their traffickers.”

“The complainant led officers to an apartment in the estate, where the Ethiopian boys were allegedly being held against their will,” he said.

At the apartment they found an Ethiopian man and woman, who were questioned regarding the boys who had allegedly escaped from their apartment.

Fihla added that the two alleged the boys were brought by their friend, and that he would be coming to fetch them later.

He further explained that officers then interviewed the boys who told them that the man had threatened to kill them if they try to escape, and they were kept hostage without their consent.

The two Ethiopian nationals were placed under arrest and detained at Mondeor SAPS.

“Cash valued at R92 000 was found in the apartment, seized and booked in at Mondeor SAPS,” added Fihla.