Police Rescue 90 Ethiopian Nationals
South African police have successfully rescued 90 Ethiopian nationals from a human trafficking syndicate in Johannesburg. This significant rescue operation was led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Special Task Force (STF) unit, marking a major achievement in the fight against human trafficking and organized crime.
Discovery of Human Trafficking Victims
On Sunday, during an investigation into kidnapping for ransom, the STF unit uncovered the 90 Ethiopian nationals who were victims of human trafficking. The Ethiopians were found confined and packed into rooms in Sunnydale Ridge, under dire conditions. This rescue operation highlighted the inhumane environment faced by these victims, emphasizing the need for stronger action against human trafficking networks.
Statement from Brigadier Athlenda Mathe on Human Trafficking Rescue
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, confirmed the rescue of the 90 Ethiopian nationals from the traffickers. “SAPS rescued 90 undocumented Ethiopian nationals who were allegedly being kept against their will and under inhumane conditions. Investigations are underway to determine how these nationals were trafficked into South Africa,” Mathe stated. The plight of the 90 Ethiopian nationals sheds light on the severity of the human trafficking problem in South Africa.
Rescue of Kidnapped Victim Amid Human Trafficking Operation
Among the 90 Ethiopian nationals was a kidnapped individual abducted in Benoni on Tuesday. The kidnappers had demanded a ransom from his family. Fortunately, he was found and rescued along with the 90 Ethiopian nationals, ensuring their safety and bringing relief to their families.
Medical Care and Arrests in Human Trafficking Case
The 90 Ethiopian nationals rescued from the operation were taken to hospitals for medical care. Additionally, two alleged human traffickers and kidnappers were arrested on the property. They face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking and are expected to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court soon.
Hawks Take Over Human Trafficking Investigation
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks) has taken over the case involving the 90 Ethiopian nationals for further investigation. Mathe emphasized the collaborative effort behind the human trafficking operation, involving crime intelligence, organized crime detectives, Sandringham and Daveyton SAPS, and private security. This collaboration was crucial in rescuing the 90 Ethiopian nationals and apprehending those involved in the crime.
EFF Criticizes Border Control Amid Drug Trafficking Surge
In a related development, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party criticized South Africa’s poor border control, attributing it to the influx of drugs in the country and contributing to situations like the trafficking of 90 Ethiopian nationals. The EFF blamed lax border and harbor controls and the corruption of officials for the rise in drug trafficking.
EFF’s Statement on Human Trafficking and Border Control
In a statement on Saturday, the EFF expressed concern over the drug trade’s impact on the nation. “This dire situation highlights the horrifying reality that the drug trade in South Africa is a multi-billion rand enterprise, sprawling across every corner of our nation,” the EFF stated. They condemned the drug lords for flouting the law and endangering the future of the youth, a reality that intersects with the trafficking of 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Call for Strategic Action Against Human Trafficking and Drug Syndicates
The EFF has repeatedly called for a strategic plan to curb illegal drug manufacturing and imports. They demand decisive action to dismantle drug syndicates and human trafficking networks like those responsible for the plight of the 90 Ethiopian nationals. “The EFF will not rest until our streets are free from this poison,” the party declared.
Recent Drug Busts Highlight Human Trafficking and Drug Trafficking Issues
Recent media reports reveal significant drug busts across the country, which often intersect with human trafficking. On Tuesday, a drug mule was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after arriving from Brazil. Police, acting on a tip-off, found cocaine worth R1 million in the aircraft’s toilet, highlighting the ongoing drug trafficking issues that could connect with the trafficking of the 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Limpopo Drug Lab Shutdown Amid Human Trafficking Concerns
In Limpopo, a clandestine drug lab worth R2 billion was shut down in the last two weeks. Two Mexican nationals were among the five suspects arrested in connection with this operation, which has ties to human trafficking networks and possibly the circumstances of the 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Cocaine Seizure in Western Cape and Its Link to Human Trafficking
In the Western Cape, police seized R252 million worth of cocaine at a roadblock in Stillbaai. A Russian national was among the two suspects arrested, shedding light on the connection between drug trafficking and human trafficking, similar to the case involving the 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Dagga and Crystal Meth Seizures Reflect Human Trafficking Crisis
Last week, police seized R40 million worth of dagga in Magaliesburg, Gauteng. Additionally, crystal meth valued at R300 million was seized in Fourways, Johannesburg, further illustrating the extent of drug trafficking and human trafficking in South Africa, as seen in the rescue of 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Drug Seizures in Mpumalanga and Their Implications on Human Trafficking
Between May and June, significant drug seizures were reported in Mpumalanga, including R4 million worth of dagga, R4 million worth of cocaine, and R4 million worth of crystal meth. These seizures highlight the intertwined nature of drug trafficking and human trafficking, much like the situation with the 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Police Destroy Drugs Worth R2 Billion Amid Human Trafficking Concerns
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola announced that police have destroyed drugs worth R2 billion over the last twelve months. These drugs include cocaine, crystal meth, and unregistered medicines, emphasizing the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and human trafficking and reinforcing efforts like the rescue of the 90 Ethiopian nationals.
Conclusion
The rescue of 90 Ethiopian nationals and the crackdown on drug trafficking highlight the ongoing battle against human trafficking and drug syndicates in South Africa. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and the critical role of intelligence and security services are essential in combating these crimes. The case of the 90 Ethiopian nationals serves as a stark reminder that human trafficking and drug trafficking remain significant challenges that require continuous efforts and strategic actions.
