21 undocumented Ethiopians found in a bus in Pretoria.

On Wednesday, April 3, in Pretoria, two individuals were apprehended under suspicion of human trafficking after the bus they were traveling in was found to be carrying 21 undocumented individuals.

The bus, en route to Johannesburg, was intercepted by the Tshwane Metro Police Department’s (TMPD) K-9 unit.

Police at the scene

Grandi Theunissen, MMC for Community Safety, reported that the duo was arrested around 15:15 for smuggling the undocumented Ethiopian nationals.

Currently, the two suspects are held in custody at the Moot Police Station, and authorities are investigating potential connections to other crimes in the area.

21 Undocumented immigrants

The case has been transferred to the South African Police Service (SAPS) as it falls outside the jurisdiction of the TMPD, according to Theunissen.

“The arrests and subsequent collaboration with the police underscore the unwavering commitment of authorities to combatting this egregious violation of human rights,” he said.

Theunissen urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicions of human trafficking or related criminal activities to the police on 10111 or at their local police station.

“Residents are also reminded to contact the TMPD on 012 358 7095/7096 or send an email to tmpdcomplaints@tshwane.gov.za for any by-law or traffic transgressions,” he concluded.

Must read: Bus driver and his assistant arrested after police find boxes of drugs in their cargo