South African police have rescued 26 Ethiopian migrants held captive in a house in Johannesburg, uncovering what they describe as a human trafficking operation. Fifteen of the victims were discovered naked inside the property, while 11 others, some injured, were found nearby after escaping through a broken window.
The rescue occurred in a northeastern suburb of the city following a tip-off from concerned neighbors. Police arrested three suspects at the scene, who were found in possession of an illegal firearm and are suspected of involvement in trafficking. The victims, who were undocumented, are undergoing processing to determine their status as trafficking victims.
According to Col. Philani Nkwalase of the Hawks, a national crime unit, the injured individuals were treated at a hospital after sustaining injuries while attempting to flee. Details about the conditions the victims endured in captivity remain unclear as investigations continue.
The incident highlights a recurring issue in South Africa. In a similar case in August last year, 90 undocumented Ethiopian migrants were rescued from inhumane conditions in another house east of Johannesburg. That operation also revealed the extent of trafficking activities within the country.
