South Africa detains foreigners suspected of heading to join Russian forces
Summary
South African police arrested nine foreign nationals at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport and a nearby hotel as they prepared to travel to Russia. Authorities suspect they intended to join Russian forces in the war in Ukraine; the men face possible charges under a law regulating foreign military assistance.Key Facts
- Police arrested the nine men late Sunday night at the airport and a nearby hotel.
- The suspects are between 20 and 26 years old.
- The investigation involved Interpol and South African law enforcement agencies.
- Police did not disclose the suspects’ nationalities or their plans in Russia.
- The men are expected to appear in court on charges related to South Africa’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act.
- The law prohibits mercenary activity and regulates military assistance, recruitment, and training connected to foreign conflicts.
- Amnesty International has accused Russia of luring foreign nationals with civilian job offers and then forcing them to fight in Ukraine.
- South Africa said earlier this year that it had secured the return of 11 men who were lured into fighting for Russia.
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