The Hawks arrested four men at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday on suspicion that they planned to travel to Russia to join its war against Ukraine.

Hawks spokesperson Col Katlego Mogale said airport police tipped off investigators about four men travelling to Russia via the United Arab Emirates.

Officers intercepted the group at the boarding gate and removed them from the queue. They then handed the men to the Hawks’ Crimes Against the State section.

Hawks link woman to alleged recruitment scheme

A preliminary inquiry found that a South African woman had allegedly facilitated the men’s travel and recruitment into the Russian military.

Investigators executed a search-and-seizure warrant for another suspect linked to the recruitment, as well as a fifth individual believed to be in Russia.

Hawks arrest more suspects after uncovering evidence

Mogale said officers interviewed one suspect who arrived at OR Tambo on Thursday and uncovered more evidence.

This led to the arrest of three additional suspects on Friday.

The Hawks seized electronic devices and two backpacks for further investigation.

Charges and Court Appearance

The suspects face charges under the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. They are expected to appear in the Kempton Park magistrate’s court on Monday.

Mogale said intelligence agencies and international partners were working to uncover the full network.

They were also assessing any possible security risks.