Suspects to face justice for contravening military assistance act

Five suspects accused of contravening the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act are set to appear at Kempton Park Magistrates Court on Monday. Among those arrested is a well-known media personality known to South African Daily. However her identity will be broadcast after formal court appearance.

The fifth suspect was apprehended on Sunday by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in connection with an ongoing probe into how several South Africans were allegedly recruited to participate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The arrests form part of a broader effort to investigate illegal foreign military involvement.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed the latest arrest, emphasising the significance of the investigation. “The suspect was taken into custody as part of our continued efforts to investigate South Africans who were allegedly recruited to participate in foreign military operations. This arrest reflects the Hawks’ commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring accountability for those who contravene national security regulations,” Mogale said.

The Hawks’ Crimes Against the State unit is leading the investigation, which aims to uncover the methods used to facilitate involvement in the conflict. Authorities have highlighted that 17 South Africans remain trapped in the war zone, awaiting assistance to return home safely. Mogale stressed that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This latest arrest follows several prior Hawks operations targeting illegal recruitment for foreign military service. The five suspects are expected to appear together in court, facing charges under the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. Hawks officials have indicated that the investigation remains active and further arrests cannot be ruled out as new information emerges.

Mogale reiterated the Hawks’ focus on national security and the seriousness of the offences. “Our aim is to ensure that no individual circumvents South Africa’s laws regarding foreign military service. We are dedicated to protecting our citizens and maintaining the integrity of our national security framework,” she said.

Authorities have urged the public to assist with the investigation by providing any relevant information. Officials noted that involvement in international conflicts and foreign military operations is strictly regulated, and contraventions are treated with the utmost seriousness.

Court proceedings on Monday, 1 December 2025, will determine the next steps in the prosecution of the suspects. The Hawks continue to work closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to identify any networks or facilitators involved in recruiting South Africans for foreign military service.