Four suspects are set to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court after being arrested on charges of human trafficking, illegal possession of drugs, illegal possession of a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Zweli Mohobeleli, the arrests on 25 February 2025 followed an intelligence-driven operation led by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) unit.
“Members reacted to disturbing information about a human trafficking incident unfolding at a house in Bayswater, Bloemfontein. A 39-year-old woman had allegedly been lured by a female suspect with promises of a better life. Once at the house, the recruiter was paid, and the victim was given food and clothes. Things turned sour when she was fed drugs and forced to perform acts of a sexual nature and clean the house,” said Mohobeleli.
A joint operation involving the SOCI and K9 Unit led to raids at two houses, resulting in the arrests. Authorities seized crystal meth, mandrax, cellphones, a bank card scanner, two firearms with ammunition, and SANDF military attire.
Free State Hawks Head, Major General Mokgadi Bokaba, urged the public to remain cautious. “Let us verify opportunities, even when presented by trusted people,” she warned.
Compiled by Justine Fortuin
