The Hawks have confirmed they are investigating claims that 17 South African men were recruited under false pretences and ended up trapped in the Ukraine–Russia conflict zone.
The inquiry was opened at the Sandton Police Station by Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, who reported that the men were promised opportunities but were instead taken to a war zone. A second inquiry was also opened against Member of Parliament Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. Zuma-Mncube accused Zuma-Sambudla, along with Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, of playing a role in the alleged recruitment.
According to Zuma-Mncube, the men believed they were travelling for training but were allegedly handed over to a mercenary group once they arrived. The Hawks say they are looking into whether any crimes — including human trafficking, illegal recruitment, exploitation, or fraud — contributed to the men’s movement into the conflict.
Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said the investigation will be handled jointly and that the findings will be submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority when complete. She added that officials are working with other government bodies and foreign authorities to ensure a coordinated investigation, especially in matters involving identity verification and international cooperation.
Families of the affected men say they have been desperate for answers. One family member said the men thought they were signing up for VIP protection training but instead found themselves in an active war zone. Relatives have criticised the government for not moving fast enough to help bring the men back home.
Earlier this month, authorities confirmed they were investigating how the group, mostly young men from KwaZulu-Natal, ended up stranded in the Donbas region after being misled with job promises. The President has also condemned the alleged recruitment, noting that it is illegal under South African law.
Legal experts warn that one challenge will be proving whether the men truly did not know what they were getting into and whether they were intentionally deceived.