The plight of 17 South African men caught in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has come to light, as the government confirms that it is actively working to secure their return home.
These young men, aged between 20 and 39, hail primarily from KwaZulu-Natal, with one individual from the Eastern Cape.
They were reportedly lured to Ukraine under the false promise of lucrative employment contracts, only to find themselves entangled in rebel forces fighting in the war.
In a statement released on Thursday, the South African Government revealed that it has received distress calls from the men, who are now seeking assistance to return to their home country.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya disclosed that President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the recruitment of these young nationals, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of its citizens abroad, as reported by The Citizen.
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Under South African law, it is illegal for citizens to provide military assistance to foreign governments or participate in foreign military activities unless expressly authorised by the government.
This raises serious legal complications for those involved in mercenary work, as the individuals may face significant consequences under South African legislation.
The government’s involvement comes on the heels of a warning issued back in August, cautioning young South Africans about fraudulent job offers circulating on social media.
There were previous reports of South African women being duped into making drones, underscoring the growing concern around the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in the context of the war.
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Picture: Alex Fedorenko /Unsplash
