An alleged trafficking in persons accused, Anupong Chaiprasit (33), has been remanded in custody by the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 April 2024.
The East Rand based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team pounced on an address along Terrace Road in Edenvale on Friday, 26 April 2024, following intelligence gathered about a possible trafficking in persons activities at the said place.
The team put the said premises under surveillance. Once inside the premises, members introduced themselves and conducted a search. Seven ladies of Thailand origin were found on the premises. During interaction with the occupants, it was established that Anupong Chaiprasit was in charge of the premises. He was then placed under arrest. The victims were rescued and transported to a place of safety. The victims further stated that they were lured into the country under false promises of better job opportunities.
Chaiprasit appeared in court on Monday, 29 April 2024.. It has further been established that he is in the country illegally. The case was postponed to Monday, 06 May 2024, pending further investigation and a Thai interpreter to be in attendance.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng Major General Ebrahim Kadwa has praised the investigators for a job well done. “Trafficking in persons remains a scourge in our country. We will continue doing our best to ensure that this is addressed wherever it occurs.” General Kadwa stated.
