TRIO ARRESTED FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Photo: Crime Scene Logo

Supplied

By: Neo Ntsele

Ethiopian shop owner Degete Erdedo Hadero 39, the victim’s cousin Mustafa Maisi 35, and Serious Katema 30, appeared in the Reddesburg Magistrates Court on Tuesday 22, facing human trafficking related charges.

On Monday 21, members of the Bloemfontein based Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) arrested two Malawian nationals for allegedly trafficking a 14-year-old boy as a child labourer.

One of the accused is the victim's cousin aged 35 years old.

Another accused 30, facilitated the employment of the minor.

The Department of Home Affairs officials and Reddesburg SAPS were conducting an operation in Reddesburg on 17 April 2025. Upon arrival at a certain tuck shop, they found the victim who was employed as a cleaner.

The victim was earning R1 000 per month, allegedly paid to his cousin who is based in Bloemfontein.

The shop owner was immediately arrested.

The matter was postponed to 29 April 2025 for bail application.