The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) arrested a suspected human trafficker believed to be part of a trafficking in persons ring and rescued a possible victim in Woodstock on Sunday evening.
According to reports, the 22-year-old victim met the 29-year-old suspect via TikTok in April 2026, after she was looking for a hair stylist in Cape Town.
It is reported that the victim agreed, and the suspect made arrangements and paid for all her travel documents, passport and flight tickets from her original destination to Cape Town.
According to Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani, the victim was picked up by the suspect upon her arrival in Cape Town and was taken to a hotel.
“Through investigation it revealed that the suspect took the victims passport as well as her cell phone. Further, it is reported that the suspect attempted to force the victim into prostitution but she refused.”
Hani added that the victim managed to escape on Sunday and ran to Woodstock South African Police Service (SAPS), where she was assisted.
The suspect reportedly also came to Woodstock SAPS to make enquiries regarding the whereabouts of the victim. The victim recognised her and pointed her out to the officers. She was immediately arrested by the police member and detained.
“The matter was then referred to the Hawks for further probing,” concluded Hani
The suspect will make her first appearance in the Cape Town Magistrate Court on Tuesday, 15 September 2026.
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