23 South African men and women – who are alleged victims of human trafficking – have been rescued from Myanmar.
They are said to have endured months of abuse and forced labour.
According to Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the ordeal began last year. The group, of both men and women, were lured by an employment agency offering high-paying jobs, free accommodation and other lucrative benefits in Thailand. They took up the offer. But Phiri said things took a turn once they arrived.
“Once in Thailand, they were transported to Myanmar against their will. The victims were held captive for more than four months,” said Phiri.
They were among 7,000 people from other countries who were held in a cybercrime compound near the Thai border. Phiri said they were kept under 24-hour armed guard and endured harsh conditions.
“They were subjected to brutal treatment, including intimidation, physical torture and forced labour. They were also compelled to engage in illicit activities, including online scams that targeted individuals worldwide,” Phiri said.
The victims also had to consume spoiled food and contaminated water to survive and had no access to medical care.
Meanwhile, a ransom of about R50,000 was demanded for their release.
Thai authorities assisted DIRCO and the Border Management Authority to facilitate the return of the South Africans who landed in Gauteng on Thursday.
“The repatriation of the South African victims was part of the bilateral cooperation agreement to combat human trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime signed by the Kingdom of the Republic of Thailand and South Africa in 2023,” explained Phiri.
23 #SouthAfricans who fell victim to human trafficking (dressed as job offers) in Myanmar will arrive home today. @DIRCO_ZA through the South African Embassy in Thailand (with the support of other depts & agencies) managed the complex process. A highly publicized operation by… pic.twitter.com/MyMUA30o1l
— Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) March 27, 2025
Back in SA
The victims have since undergone medical and psychiatric screening with the Social Development Department, and those from outside Gauteng have been provided with temporary housing.
At the same time, the Hawks have begun an investigation, specifically looking into the trafficking syndicates involved.
“The DPCI will investigate the matter, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled at a later stage with the victims to gather comprehensive statements, as their emotional and physical well-being must be taken into consideration.”
Proceed with caution
South African authorities are urging citizens to practice caution and do thorough research when considering employment opportunities abroad.
“These offers may appear legitimate but are designed to deceive and exploit vulnerable and unsuspecting job seekers. Human traffickers keep changing and improving their methods in efforts to defeat efforts by law-enforcement agencies. These criminal syndicates are highly organised and can be very good at identifying and recruiting potential victims,” said Phiri.
Phiri also urged citizens to consult with relevant embassies or DIRCO to further verify the credentials of recruitment agencies.
Further to this, he said that citizens who are victims of human trafficking or know someone who may be, should seek help immediately.
“Contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate for assistance. Notify local law enforcement agencies and international organisations dedicated to combating human trafficking.”
Use the following helplines to report suspected incidents of human trafficking:
- Childline – 116
- Film and Publication Board – 0800 148 148
- GBV Command Centre – 0800 428 428
- National Human Trafficking Hotline – 0800 222 777.
This article has been updated with further information.
