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Media Statement GAUTENG – The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation arrested a South African and two Nigerian nationals, Ifeanyi Michael Ugbobuaku (39) Seeraj Wally (43), and Matthew Adeongun (38), on Wednesday, 22 May 2024. They have consequently appeared in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 24 May 2024, for allegations of Trafficking In Persons (TIP), rape, drug dealing, and contravening the Immigration Act. An integrated team that comprised the South African Police Service’s – National Joint Operation and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) and the Department of Home Affairs Head Office acted swiftly on intelligence of a 34-year-old victim being kept against her will at house on Daisy Street, Sandton. The team tactically gained entry and found four occupants, three males and one female who identified herself as the victim. The house was searched, and a small quantity of narcotics comprising Mandrax and Crystal Meth were found. Preliminary investigation indicated that the drugs belonged to Matthew Adeongun. The case was registered at Sandton police station following their detention. The victim has recounted her ordeal at the hands of her captors, including being subjected to sexual exploitation and a life of drugs. It is believed that there are many other victims who might have fallen prey to the same arrested perpetrators. They are urged to contact the investigation officer in this case, Warrant Officer Don Barath on 082 319 9446. Information received will be treated with strict confidentiality. The court has adjourned the case until 31 May 2024 for a bail application. Their bail bid will be vigorously opposed. This is owing to the serious nature of the charges preferred against the accused. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, has praised the integrated team for a splendid operation. “Though it is common course that TIP happens worldwide, the Hawks will stop at nothing to ensure that the perpetrators of this modern-day human slavery are dealt with decisively. The Republic of South Africa remains a signatory of the United Nations Convention, Palermo Protocol. To prevent, suppress, and punish TIP perpetrators, usually committed against our vulnerable members of society, women, and children,” he said. Ends
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