South African police detained nine Zimbabwean nationals in and around Johannesburg on Sunday evening after they were caught allegedly preparing to board flights out of the country to fight in the war between Russia and Ukraine. The suspects, aged between 20 and 26, were arrested by a multidisciplinary team that included Interpol officers. Five of the men were taken at the country’s largest airport, OR Tambo, while the remaining four were apprehended at a hotel in Bruma, east of Johannesburg.
Authorities charged the group with contravening South Africa’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, which prohibits mercenary activity without government permission. All nine appeared in court following the arrests, and prosecutors said the involvement of Interpol and other international law‑enforcement agencies suggests that the suspects may have violated laws in their home countries as well.
The police statement did not clarify whether the group intended to fight for Russia or Ukraine, nor did it disclose the organisations that allegedly facilitated their travel. Zimbabwe has previously reported that 15 of its nationals were killed after being recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine, with more than 60 still trapped on the frontlines. South Africa has also recovered 17 citizens who were reportedly tricked into joining the war.
Ukraine has been recruiting foreign nationals, including from Africa, and a Ukrainian intelligence assessment earlier this year estimated that more than 1,700 people from 36 African countries had been recruited to fight for Russia. The international nature of the case has prompted cooperation between South African authorities and agencies in the suspects’ home countries.
Police said the operation was part of a broader effort to curb the recruitment of African nationals for foreign conflicts. The suspects’ final destination remains unclear, and further details are expected as the case proceeds.
