By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GettyImages.
The South African government has confirmed receiving distress calls from 17 citizens who joined mercenary forces fighting in the Russia–Ukraine.
The men are between the ages of 20 and 39 years and are trapped in Ukraine’s war-torn Donbas region.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has “ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the recruitment of these young men into these seemingly mercenary activities,” presidency said. The men were lured to join the mercenary forces under the pretext of lucrative contracts.”
Spokesman Vincent Magwenya added the South African government is working through “diplomatic channels” to secure their return.
Magwenya said 16 of the men were from KwaZulu-Natal and one from the Eastern Cape.
“President Ramaphosa and the South African government strongly condemn the exploitation of young vulnerable people by individuals working with foreign military entities,” he added.
South Africa has an unemployment rate of more than 30%, and is even higher among young people, making them vulnerable for recruitment.
Under South African law, it is illegal for citizens to provide military assistance to foreign governments or participate in foreign armies unless authorised by South Africa.
South Africa seeks to project itself as non-aligned on the war, while maintaining warm relations with Moscow as a fellow member of the BRICS group of emerging economies. Ramaphosa has met leaders of both countries.