Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: A group of South African nationals who were allegedly lured into fighting for Russia in its war against Ukraine arrived at Durban airport on February 25.
The 11 men arrived at the King Shaka International Airport and were ushered into the police station to be questioned about how they ended up on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. It brings to 15 the number of South Africans who have now returned to the country.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has thanked his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for helping to secure the return of South Africans. Ramaphosa said that one of the men was still in hospital in Russia while another would travel once his travel documentation has been finalized.
Police spokesperson Col. Katlego Mogale said last week that an investigation has been opened in connection with South African laws which prohibit any citizen from taking part in foreign conflicts without the authorization of the government.
At least five people are being investigated in connection with the men’s recruitment to Russia, including Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma. She has denied any wrongdoing but resigned as a lawmaker in South Africa’s Parliament.
Last November, the South African government said it received distress calls from the group of men who had joined mercenary forces in the conflict. The men believed they were going to Russia for bodyguard training but ended up on the front line of the war in Ukraine.
