26 foreign nationals rescued from alleged human trafficking ring in Rembrandt Park
Of the 26 who escaped 11 Ethiopian victims were taken to hospital for medical observation.
An alleged human trafficking ring was exposed after 26 Ethiopian nationals were rescued from a house in Rembrandt Park, Johannesburg on January 9.
Members of the Sandringham SAPS, Gauteng Hawks, JMPD, and a private security company responded to a tip-off from neighbours about suspicious activities at the residence on Lister Road. Hawks spokesperson Colonel Philani Nkwalase said upon arrival, authorities found 15 naked individuals inside the house and another 11 victims were transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
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Preliminary investigation revealed that the victims broke open a window and burglar bar to escape. Some victims were rounded up in the area close to the crime scene while others fled.
Further investigation led to the arrest of three suspects, who are suspected of being involved in human trafficking and illegal possession of a firearm. The suspects were found with a 9mm P Tokarev pistol, one magazine, and no ammunition.
The matter was referred to the Gauteng Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation for further investigation, and the 26 undocumented individuals are currently being processed to determine their status as trafficking victims.
The public is urged to report to the authorities any person seen without wearing clothes in the area as they may be linked to the incident.
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