By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has confirmed 23 South Africans who fell victim to human trafficking in Myanmar will arrive home on Thursday.
The group were rescued during a raid at the premises of their forced labour by Myanmar authorities.
DIRCO spokesperson Chrisp Phiri says the men and women were taken from Thailand to Myanmar against their will – where they were held under deplorable conditions for months. He says further support will be given to a group of South Africans rescued from captivity in Myanmar – after they were lured to that country over false job prospects.
“The victims were held captive for more than four months in a cybercrime compound in Myanmar, which borders Thailand. They were subjected to brutal treatment, including intimidation, physical torture and forced labour. They were also compelled to engage in illicit activities, including online scams that targeted individuals worldwide.
“They were held under 24-hour armed security, and a ransom of approximately fifty thousand rand (R50 000) was demanded for their release, added Phiri.”
It’s understood the victims were forced to work 16 hours a day and were frequently beaten or tortured if they refused, and they survived on spoiled food and contaminated water without access to medical treatment.
The Department of Social Development and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) have conducted the initial screening of the victims to verify their identity and family information.
According to Phiri, social workers would also assist the Hawks in conducting further screening interviews with the South African nationals, as they were not officially screened in Myanmar or Thailand.
“For some individuals, it might be necessary to obtain medical assistance before the screening interviews.
“Following the screening interviews, the DPCI will transport the victims to health facilities to undergo health screenings. Medical practitioners will assess them for any physical injuries suffered whilst they were held hostage in Myanmar to determine the need for medical assistance.
“In addition to ongoing psychosocial support, the DSD will provide temporary accommodation for those from outside Gauteng, allowing them to reunite with their families and next of kin.”
The government urges members of the public to exercise extreme caution when considering employment opportunities abroad.