Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, thanked Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, for aiding the return of 17 South African men deceived into fighting in Ukraine. The men sought help after realizing their predicament.
Presidential Acknowledgment
Ramaphosa expressed gratitude during a February 10 phone call with Putin. Vincent Magwenya, presidential spokesperson, stated, “President Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Vladimir Putin who responded positively to his call to support the process of returning the men home.” This cooperation facilitated the repatriation.
The Luring Incident
Recruiters enticed the men with promises of bodyguard training in Russia. However they received Russian-language contracts and deployed to Ukraine’s front lines. South African law prohibited such mercenary activities without government approval. The government received distress calls in November.
Repatriation Process
Authorities collaborated with Russian officials to secure releases. Four men returned to Johannesburg last Friday. Additionally, 11 others prepared for imminent travel home. Magwenya explained, “Two remain in Russia with one in a hospital in Moscow, while the other one is being processed before finalising his travel arrangements.”
Legal Implications
Investigations linked Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, former MP and daughter of ex-President Jacob Zuma, to the recruitment. She resigned in late November amid allegations. Meanwhile police arrested five suspects, including a radio presenter, in December. They gained release on bail.
Statements from Involved Parties
Zuma-Sambudla denied wrongdoing in an affidavit. She declared, “I would not, under any circumstances, knowingly expose my own family or any other person to harm.” She believed the training was lawful. The case highlighted risks of foreign recruitment schemes.
