The men, aged between 20 and 39, are believed to have been promised lucrative employment contracts before finding themselves caught up in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Sixteen of them are from the KwaZulu-Natal province, while one hails from the Eastern Cape province.

Presidency Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the group had sent a distress call to the SA government seeking assistance to return home.

“Under the Foreign Military Assistance Act of 1998, it is illegal for South African citizens and entities to offer or provide military assistance to foreign governments or participate in armies of foreign governments unless authorised by the South African government,” Magwenya said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to their recruitment.

“The President has directed relevant authorities to investigate how these young men were recruited into these seemingly mercenary activities,” Magwenya added. He confirmed that the government is working through diplomatic channels to secure their safe return.

“The SA government is engaging with relevant partners to facilitate the return of these young men following their appeal for assistance. Ramaphosa and the SA government strongly condemn the exploitation of young, vulnerable people by individuals working with foreign military entities,” Magwenya said.

–SABC/ChannelAfrica–