Hawks Launch Probe into Recruitment of 17 SA Men Trapped in Ukraine-Russia War

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, has launched a formal investigation into the alleged recruitment of 17 South African men who are reportedly trapped in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. The probe follows criminal complaints accusing MK Party MP Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, her half-sister’s associates Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, of luring the men under false pretences of job opportunities or training, only for them to end up fighting on the frontlines. Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, that two enquiry dockets have been opened, one at Sandton Police Station by Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, and another against Zuma-Sambudla on 23 November 2025.

The men, mostly young and from KwaZulu-Natal, were promised VIP protection training or security jobs but allegedly found themselves handed over to a Russian mercenary group in the war-torn Donbas region. Family members have voiced frustration over the government’s slow response in repatriating them, with some criticising officials for failing to act swiftly. President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the recruitment as illegal under the Foreign Military Assistance Act, ordering investigations and assistance for their safe return. As the Hawks collaborate with foreign authorities, the case raises serious concerns about human trafficking, fraud, and exploitation amid South Africa’s neutral stance on the conflict.

The Allegations: False Promises Leading to War Zone

The investigation centres on claims that the 17 men were deceived into travelling to Russia, believing they were heading for legitimate employment or training programmes. Instead, they reportedly ended up in mercenary roles supporting Russian forces in Ukraine. Zuma-Mncube, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma and half-sister to Zuma-Sambudla, opened the case at Sandton Police Station, accusing the trio of contravening laws by luring the men with false job pretences.

Family members, like Sandile Ndhlovu—brother of one recruit—told media outlets that the men were promised security training but found themselves in a raging war. “We’ve been trying to get hold of senior officials in government… We want the government to assist us with this issue, but so far, we haven’t gotten any help,” Ndhlovu said. Some recruits have sent distress calls home, describing dire conditions in the conflict zone.

Zuma-Sambudla, an MK Party parliamentarian, has denied direct involvement, alleging she was misled in the matter. However, her role has come under scrutiny, with accusations that she facilitated the recruitment. Legal analyst Ulrich Roux noted the challenges in proving deception: “One of the difficulties that I do foresee is that they are going to have to prove that these 17 individuals… were not aware of what the actual situation was, and that they would be drafted into fighting in this war.”

Hawks’ Joint Investigation and Multi-Agency Collaboration

Brigadier Mbambo confirmed the Hawks are treating the two dockets as a joint probe to determine if crimes like human trafficking, illegal recruitment, exploitation, or fraud occurred. “Both matters are being investigated jointly to determine whether any criminality… may have contributed to the movement of these individuals to the conflict zone. The exact charges will be confirmed upon completion of the investigation and assessment of all evidence,” she said.

The DPCI is working closely with government departments, including the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), and foreign authorities to gather evidence. This includes verifying travel documents, communications, and financial transactions related to the recruitment. Upon completion, the docket will go to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision on charges.

The government’s response has been criticised for delays, but officials say they are investigating how the men ended up in the war zone. Dirco has been in contact with Russian authorities to facilitate repatriation, though the men’s involvement with mercenaries complicates matters under international law.

Broader Implications: South Africa’s Stance on the Conflict

South Africa has maintained neutrality in the Ukraine-Russia war, abstaining from UN votes condemning Russia’s actions and advocating for dialogue. However, the recruitment of citizens to fight violates the Foreign Military Assistance Act, which prohibits South Africans from joining foreign armed conflicts without government approval. Ramaphosa’s condemnation reinforces this, stating the government will assist in bringing the men home safely.

The case has drawn international attention, with reports in outlets like The Guardian and BBC highlighting family ties to former President Zuma. It also exposes vulnerabilities in job scams targeting unemployed youth, with promises of overseas opportunities leading to exploitation.

Legal experts warn that proving intent will be key, as some recruits may have known the risks. Roux added: “It may be difficult to prove that the 17 South African men were recruited under false pretences and that they did not know that they were being sent to a war zone.”

Family Anguish and Calls for Repatriation

Families of the trapped men have expressed deep distress, with some criticising the government for inaction. Ndhlovu shared that his brother and others feel abandoned in a foreign war they never signed up for. Social media campaigns have amplified their pleas, urging Dirco and the presidency to expedite repatriation.

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