In a shocking discovery, forty-four young men believed to be illegal immigrants from Ethiopia were found locked in a house in Parkmore, Sandton, Gauteng, following a report of suspicious activity. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 2, 2025, after local security personnel responded to complaints from concerned residents.
According to Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS), the discovery was made after private security officers conducting routine patrols in the affluent suburb were alerted by residents who reported hearing loud screams and unusual noises coming from a residential property.
Upon arriving at the scene, security personnel found signs of distress and quickly escalated the matter to the nearby police station. SAPS officers promptly responded and entered the premises, where they uncovered a troubling situation.
Inside the back rooms of the main house, police discovered 44 young males, all believed to be Ethiopian nationals, confined in cramped quarters. The individuals are reportedly aged between 15 and 22 years. Initial reports suggest that the men may have been held against their will, raising serious concerns about potential human trafficking.
- “It is alleged that the individuals were locked in the back rooms and kept under suspicious circumstances,” said Masondo. “We are investigating the possibility that they were trafficked into the country.”
Authorities from the Department of Home Affairs have been called in to process the individuals, verifying their identities and immigration status. Preliminary investigations suggest that none of them had valid documentation allowing them to be in South Africa legally.
Masondo emphasized that a full-scale investigation is now underway to determine how these young men were brought into the country and who may be responsible for their detention. Law enforcement officials are currently working to identify the owners or tenants of the property and uncover whether any criminal syndicates are involved.
“There is a strong suspicion that this could be linked to a broader human trafficking network operating in or around Johannesburg,” Masondo added.
The discovery has sparked outrage and concern among community members and human rights organizations, who are calling for swift action against those responsible and greater enforcement against illegal trafficking and smuggling operations.
Local authorities have not made any arrests yet, but they confirmed that they are following several leads. They also urged anyone with information about the incident or similar cases to come forward and assist with the investigation.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges South Africa faces with illegal immigration and human trafficking, particularly in urban centers like Johannesburg. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to reveal more information in the coming days.
This developing story has drawn national attention and reignited discussions around immigration control, human trafficking prevention, and the importance of community vigilance.