Johannesburg, South Africa – Three Zimbabwean citizens have been handed four life sentences each by the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg for their involvement in a significant child trafficking operation that came to light in 2022.
The verdict underscores South Africa’s firm stance against human trafficking and its dedication to safeguarding vulnerable children.
The convicted individuals, identified as Hilda Tenega, Sthembiso Mlauzi, and Kumburai Andrew Masimo, were found guilty on multiple charges. These include human trafficking, fraud, possession of fraudulent documents, and contravening immigration laws.
The intricate scheme began to unravel when airport officials at OR Tambo International Airport intercepted Tenega. She was attempting to depart with three children, presenting what were later confirmed to be fraudulent travel documents. Subsequent investigations revealed Tenega’s intention to traffic these children from South Africa to Ireland.
Further inquiries, spearheaded by Warrant Officer Claas Ranthakgoa, led to the apprehension of Mlauzi and Masimo. The pair had allegedly facilitated the illicit movement of the children across international borders by falsely claiming to be their relatives.
According to Magaboke Mohlatlole, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng, the accused were initially granted bail following their arrests. However, senior state advocate Makwena Mokwatedi successfully petitioned for the revocation of their bail once the case was escalated to the National Director of Public Prosecutions’ office. Consequently, all three remained in custody until the conclusion of their trial.
During the sentencing phase, Advocate Mokwatedi highlighted to the court how the defendants had exploited the extreme vulnerability of the children, who were orphans. This factor weighed heavily in the court’s decision.
Each of the accused received four life sentences specifically for trafficking in persons. Additionally, they were sentenced to 12 years for fraud, 15 years for possessing fraudulent documents, and two years for violating the Immigration Act. Acting Judge Thembi Bokako stipulated that these additional prison terms would run concurrently with the life sentences.
Mohlatlole emphasized that the rigorous judgment serves as a clear indicator of South Africa’s unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting its most vulnerable population from exploitation.
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