Media Statement

Deputy Minister Nel commends the National Intersectoral Committee on Trafficking in Persons (NICTIP) on the rescue of Ethiopian Nationals in Johannesburg

10 January 2026

The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Andries Nel, has commended the National Intersectoral Committee on Trafficking in Persons (NICTIP) for its work in the case of twelve male Ethiopian nationals who were initially thought to be suspected victims of trafficking.

NICTIP is South Africa’s coordinating body to combat human trafficking, led by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. It brings together departments and institutions such as the SAPS, the National Prosecuting Authority, Social Development, Home Affairs, Health, Labour, and International Relations and Cooperation to ensure the prevention of human trafficking, the protection of victims, and the prosecution of offenders.

The twelve Ethiopian nationals were rescued in Johannesburg on 6 January 2026. They were found in a vulnerable state and initial reports suggested that they may have been minors and/or possible victims of trafficking.

On 7 January 2026 NICTIP convened an urgent meeting in order to investigate the matter. Interpreters were arranged and the Gauteng Department of Social Development, working with the South African Police Service and partner departments, concluded assessments on the individuals to ascertain whether they were suspected victims of trafficking.

Formal assessments were conducted in line with the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2013, and based on the findings, ten adult Ethiopian nationals (aged 19 – 35) have been declared not to be victims of trafficking in persons. They reported travelling voluntarily to South Africa in search of employment. Two minors were identified and placed in a place of safety under the Children’s Act, 2005.

The matter remains subject to further investigation and management by the SAPS and other relevant stakeholders.

The ten adult individuals appeared in the Booysens Magistrates Court yesterday on charges of contravening section 49(1) of the Immigration Act, 2002. The Court appointed Legal Aid SA representation for them and postponed the matter to 15 January 2026. They will remain in custody while awaiting trial.

“It is vital for NICTIP to act quickly in suspected trafficking cases because human trafficking is a crime that thrives on secrecy, speed, and exploitation, meaning delays can expose vulnerable individuals to further harm or allow perpetrators to escape accountability. Immediate intervention ensures that potential victims are protected, evidence is preserved, and networks are disrupted before they can adapt or relocate - even if later assessments reveal that a person was not trafficked. This proactive stance strengthens deterrence and signals that South Africa takes any case of confirmed or suspected human trafficking very seriously,” said Deputy Minister Nel.

 

Media Enquiries: Mr Terrence Manase - Spokesperson: Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development, 082 338 6707

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA