A South African man and two Nigerian nationals were among two people arrested by the Hawks, accused of human trafficking after a woman was allegedly s.e.xually exploited and given drugs at a house in Sandton.
South African citizen Seeraj Wally, 43, and two Nigerian nationals, Ifeanyi Michael Ugbobuaku, 39, and Matthew Adeogun, 38, were arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) earlier this week.
The accused appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Friday, facing charges including trafficking in persons, rape, drug dealing, and contravening the Immigration Act.
“An integrated team that comprised the South African Police Service’s National Joint Operation and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints) and the Department of Home Affairs head office acted swiftly on intelligence of a 34-year-old victim being kept against her will at house number 130 Daisy Street, at Sandton,” said Gauteng provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, Captain Lloyd Ramovha.
The law enforcement team tactically entered the Sandton premises and found four occupants, three men and one woman who identified herself as the victim.
“The house was searched, and a small quantity of narcotics comprising mandrax and crystal meth were found. Preliminary investigation indicated that the drugs belonged to Matthew Adeogun,” said Ramovha.
The case was registered at Sandton police station following the detention of the trio.
“The victim has recounted her ordeal at the hands of her captors, including being subjected to sexual exploitation and a life of drugs.
“It is believed that there are many other victims who might have fallen prey to the same arrested perpetrators. They are urged to contact the investigation officer in this case, Warrant Officer Don Barath on 082 319 9446,” said Ramovha.
The Hawks said information received will be treated with strict confidentiality.
The Alexandra Magistrate’s Court has adjourned the case until May 31 2024 for bail application.
“Their bail bid will be vigorously opposed. This is owing to the serious nature of the charges preferred against the accused,” said Ramovha.
Meanwhile, Gauteng head of the Hawks, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa has praised the integrated law enforcement team for “a splendid operation”.
“Though it is common course that trafficking in persons happens worldwide, the Hawks will stop at nothing to ensure that the perpetrators of this modern-day human slavery are dealt with decisively,” said Kadwa.
“The Republic of South Africa remains a signatory of the United Nations convention, the Palermo Protocol, to prevent, suppress, and punish trafficking in persons perpetrators, usually committed against our vulnerable members of society, women, and children.”
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