Four suspects, aged between 20 and 40, are due to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court following their arrests in connection with human trafficking.
Bayswater woman arrested for trafficking: Here’s what police know
The suspects were apprehended on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, in Bayswater, Bloemfontein, after a joint operation led by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) unit and the K9 Unit.
Authorities acted on intelligence suggesting a trafficking operation was taking place at a residence in Bayswater.
A 39-year-old Bloemfontein woman was allegedly lured to the house under false promises of a better life by a female recruiter. Upon arrival, the recruiter was reportedly paid, and the victim was provided with new clothes and food.
However, she was later drugged and coerced into performing sexual acts while also being forced to clean the house.
Police raided two properties linked to the suspects, recovering drugs, firearms, and other incriminating evidence.
Among the confiscated items were crystal meth, mandrax, an SANDF military uniform, cellphones, a bank card scanner, two firearms, and ammunition.
The suspects face multiple charges, including human trafficking, illegal possession of drugs, illegal possession of military uniforms, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Investigators are now working to determine whether the group is linked to a broader trafficking network operating in the Free State and beyond.
Free State Hawks Head, Major General Mokgadi Bokaba, has urged communities to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of human trafficking.
“Let us verify opportunities even if they are presented by trusted people,” she warned.
Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the trafficking operation, and further arrests have not been ruled out.