President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the return of a group of South African men who were recruited and deployed to the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war, in a saga that first came to light in 2025 when reports emerged that citizens had been trapped in the conflict zone.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Presidency confirmed that the government, working with Russian authorities, had secured the safe return of the men following distress calls for assistance. The group of 17 South Africans, aged between 20 and 39, had allegedly been lured into the war under false pretences by local recruitment networks now under investigation.
Four of the men have already returned home, while 11 are expected back in the country soon. Two remain in Russia, with one receiving medical treatment in Moscow and the other still undergoing administrative processes before finalising travel arrangements.
“The South African embassy in Moscow will continue to monitor the individual in hospital until he has fully recovered and is able to travel,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa also expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for facilitating the process. Putin had pledged support during a telephone call with Ramaphosa on 10 February.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the safe return of the men was a priority after the government became aware of their situation.
“The President extends his appreciation to the Russian government for their cooperation and swift response in ensuring that our citizens are able to return home safely,” Magwenya said.
The case has drawn widespread concern since it first surfaced in 2025, when families reported that young South African men had travelled abroad for what they believed were job opportunities, only to find themselves on the frontlines of an active war. Advocacy groups and officials at the time warned of a possible human trafficking network exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Authorities have since intensified investigations into the recruitment process, with the Hawks probing allegations of human trafficking and illegal mercenary activities.
The Hawks have already made several arrests linked to the case, including individuals accused of recruiting and transporting the men. Among those arrested is a public broadcaster employee, with reports indicating that an SABC presenter is among suspects facing charges related to human trafficking.
The controversy has also taken a political turn, with the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK Party) being blamed in some quarters for allegedly having links to the recruitment networks, though the party has not been formally charged.
Meanwhile, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former president Jacob Zuma, has also been drawn into the matter. A case has been opened against her in connection with the alleged recruitment. She recently resigned from being a member of parliament for the party.
