Mediamec The Hawks have taken into custody a fifth individual linked to an ongoing investigation into the recruitment of South Africans to fight in the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
This latest arrest follows earlier detentions of four people who were intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport while preparing to board a flight to Russia via the United Arab Emirates.
The suspect is expected to appear at Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where they will face charges under the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act (RFMAA 1998), which criminalises unauthorised recruitment or facilitation of foreign military involvement.
According to the Hawks, the investigation began after airport police flagged suspicious behaviour by a group of individuals headed to Russia. Further inquiry suggested that a South African woman may have helped coordinate their travel and recruitment for the Russian military.
As part of the operation, electronic devices and backpacks were seized for forensic examination. Authorities are collaborating with local and international intelligence agencies to uncover the full scope of the network and any additional suspects.
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