South African Police Arrest Nine Foreign Nationals Over Alleged Plans to Join Russia-Ukraine War

South African police have arrested nine foreign nationals suspected of attempting to travel from the country to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war.

The suspects, aged between 20 and 26, were arrested on Sunday night, November 8, at O.R. Tambo International Airport and a hotel in Bruma, Johannesburg, following an intelligence-led investigation involving local and international law enforcement agencies.

According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, popularly known as the Hawks, the suspects were allegedly preparing to board flights out of South Africa when officers intervened.

The operation involved the Hawks, Interpol, South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence, international law enforcement agencies and other security teams.

Police spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the suspects were expected to face charges relating to the violation of South Africa’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act 15 of 1998.

The legislation regulates the provision of military assistance to foreign states and parties involved in armed conflicts, including certain recruitment and mercenary activities.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court. Police have not publicly disclosed their nationalities or established which side of the conflict they allegedly intended to join.

The arrests come amid increasing concerns over the recruitment of Africans into Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine. Several African governments have raised alarms over recruitment schemes that allegedly lure people with promises of well-paid civilian jobs, security training and other employment opportunities before sending them into combat.

South Africa has previously investigated cases involving citizens allegedly recruited to fight for Russian forces. In one high-profile case, 17 South African men reportedly travelled to Russia after being promised security training and employment opportunities. They later found themselves caught up in the war in Ukraine, prompting diplomatic efforts to secure their return.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, was investigated over allegations that she helped recruit some of the men. She denied wrongdoing and was not formally charged.

South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, also confirmed in February 2026 that at least two South African citizens had died after being recruited to fight for Russia.

Other African countries, including Kenya and Zimbabwe, have reported similar cases involving citizens who allegedly travelled to Russia after receiving misleading job offers.

The latest arrests highlight growing regional concerns about recruitment networks and the use of African countries as departure points for people seeking to join foreign armed forces.