A 47-year-old foreign national is expected to appear in Booysens Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on charges of being an illegal immigrant and suspected human trafficking.

Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said officers were alerted by Fox Security in the early hours of Monday to a troubling scene along Broad Street in Mulbarton.

“Upon arrival, officers discovered ten young males, many wearing only underwear, who appeared unable to speak English,” Fihla said.

“We were also informed that two additional victims had been taken away in a blue Volkswagen Jetta.”

A tactical search of the area, conducted with the assistance of Fox Security, led to the interception of the vehicle on Commissioner Street.

“The driver was apprehended along with the two missing victims, ending a high-speed chase,” Fihla added.

Fihla also confirmed the ages of the victims.

“All twelve rescued youths are Ethiopian nationals, ranging from 13 to 19 years old, with the majority under 15,” he said.

Gauteng Hawks provincial head Major General Ebrahim Kadwa praised the teamwork.

“This operation demonstrates the value of multi-disciplinary collaboration in combating human trafficking,” he said.

Authorities are urging residents to report any suspected trafficking, particularly involving minors, to their nearest police station or through the National Human Trafficking Resource Line at 0800 222 777.

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has warned that human trafficking remains a serious and growing concern in the province.

“Coordinated efforts by law enforcement and partners are essential to protect vulnerable individuals,” said a statement from the Legislature.

Reports from the National Human Trafficking Hotline indicate calls related to trafficking have increased, with Gauteng among the provinces recording significant numbers.

National statistics underline the scale of the problem: in 2024/25, 234 victims were rescued and assisted, while 23 cases were finalised, resulting in 11 convictions and several long prison terms for perpetrators.

Human trafficking remains a serious threat in South Africa, and authorities encourage the public to stay alert and informed.

Personal Safety and Awareness Tips

Guidance shared by Vuk’zenzele, the South African government newspaper, urges residents to take the following precautions:

• Be wary of job, travel or study offers that seem too good to be true or come with pressure to decide quickly.
• Always verify employment or business opportunities before accepting them, especially if they involve travel or relocation.
• Never hand over your ID, passport or cellphone to anyone, as it is illegal for employers to keep personal documents.
• Avoid oversharing personal information on social media, including your address, school, or daily routine.
• When meeting someone for the first time, especially after online contact, choose a public place and inform a trusted person of your plans.
• Ensure a trusted friend or family member knows your whereabouts and emergency contact details at all times.
• Speak to children about safety in an age-appropriate way, including the dangers of talking to strangers or accepting lifts.
• Travel in groups where possible and avoid isolated areas, particularly at night.

Warning Signs of Human Trafficking

The TEARS Foundation highlights the following red flags that may indicate trafficking:

• Individuals who are constantly monitored or not allowed to speak freely.
• Possession of ID documents, passports or phones being controlled by someone else.
• Rehearsed or scripted responses when asked basic questions.
• Living and working in the same place under strict supervision.
• Signs of physical abuse, neglect, poor health or malnutrition.
• Fearful behaviour, avoidance of eye contact, or reluctance to engage with authorities.
• Claims of owing an ongoing or unpayable debt to a recruiter or employer.

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