South African arrested for holding four Zimbabwean illegal immigrants hostage

South Africa’s specialised crime investigations unit, the Hawks, has arrested a 25 year old, Raymond Sithole,  for allegedly holding four Zimbabwean illegal immigrants hostage at Chebeng village in the Seshego area of Polokwane City.

The police spokesperson said Sithole illegally smuggled his victims aged between 15 and 20 years into the neighbouring country after promising them good jobs. He said Sithole kept the four at his house and would force them to steal and do other jobs for no pay. Capt Maluleke said Sithole has been charged with human trafficking and corruption.

He said the suspect has since appeared before the Seshego magistrate court and was remanded in custody to January 9. Hawks Limpopo’s provincial head, Major General Thobeka Jozi commended her team for reacting swiftly and apprehending Sithole.