South Africa Arrests Nine Foreigners Over Alleged Russia-Ukraine War Recruitment
South Africa Arrests Nine Foreigners Over Alleged Russia-Ukraine War Recruitment
Hundreds of African citizens have been recruited to join the Russia-Ukraine war in recent years
South African authorities have arrested nine foreign nationals over an alleged attempt to travel from the country to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war.
The suspects, aged between 20 and 26, were arrested on Sunday night, November 8, at O.R. Tambo International Airport and a hotel in Bruma, Johannesburg.
The arrests followed an intelligence-led investigation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks, the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) and other local and international law enforcement agencies.
According to the Hawks, the suspects were preparing to board flights out of the country when they were apprehended by the multidisciplinary team.
South African police spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the operation was conducted following intelligence gathered during the investigation.
The suspects are expected to face charges relating to the contravention of the country’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act 15 of 1998.
The legislation regulates military assistance provided to foreign states and prohibits mercenary activities without the required authorisation.
They are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court, although police have not announced a specific court date.
Authorities have not disclosed the nationalities of the suspects or identified which side of the conflict they allegedly intended to join.
The arrests come amid growing concerns over the recruitment of Africans to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war, with some reportedly lured by promises of lucrative civilian employment before being sent to the battlefield.
South Africa has previously taken steps to bring home 17 of its citizens who were allegedly recruited to fight for Russian forces after being promised military training and employment opportunities.
In February 2026, the government announced arrangements with Russia to facilitate their return.
The latest arrests have renewed attention on recruitment networks operating across the continent and the use of African countries as departure points for foreign military recruitment.
