-Staff Writer /25, Tue Nov 2025
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) has confirmed that it is investigating two enquiries opened in connection with 17 South African men reportedly trapped in the Ukraine/Russia conflict.
Hawks national spokesperson, Thandi Mbambo, said the first enquiry was filed at the Sandton Police Station by the eldest Daughter of former South African President, Jacob Zuma, Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, while a second enquiry docket was registered on Sunday, 24 November 2025, by his youngest daughter Duduzile Sambudla-Zuma.
According to Mbambo, both matters are being investigated jointly to establish whether any criminality including possible human trafficking, illegal recruitment, exploitation, or fraud may have played a role in the movement of the men to the conflict zone.
She said the exact charges will only be confirmed once the investigation is complete and all evidence has been assessed.
The DPCI is working with various government departments and relevant foreign authorities to ensure a coordinated approach.
This cooperation, Mbambo noted, ensures the investigation proceeds within the legal mandates of all structures involved, particularly on issues relating to international relations, identity verification, and foreign law-enforcement engagement.
Mbambo said the Hawks remain in contact with the complainants and family members as part of the investigative process.
Updates will be provided where appropriate, but only in a manner that does not compromise the integrity of the investigation.
Once all evidence has been gathered and the investigation finalised, the docket will be submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision.
“To safeguard the integrity of this investigation, no further details will be disclosed in the public domain at this stage,” Mbambo added.
The DPCI emphasised that the matter is receiving priority attention, and every necessary step is being taken to establish the facts and ensure accountability where required.
News Junction (Gold Standard)