A multi-disciplinary operation consisting of Kimberley based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Provincial Organised Crime Unit, Kimberley K9, Crime Intelligence and Local Criminal Record Centre led to the arrest of a 38-year- old suspect on allegations of trafficking in persons and possession of drugs.
Information was received by the team regarding suspected victims of trafficking in persons aged between 17 and 29 on Sunday, 15 October 2023. Victims were allegedly lured from Gauteng to Northern Cape during this month of October 2023 and were promised a better life by the perpetrator. They were locked up at Sun1 Hotel, Kimberley and were used for prostitution.
A disruptive operation was conducted at the said hotel and the victims were rescued. Also, mandrax tablets, crystal methamphetamine (tik), cellphones and documentation were confiscated for further investigation. The victims are currently kept at a place of safety.
The suspect is expected to appear before Kimberley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 17 October 2023.