Security

Individuals arrested in South Africa attempting to join Ukraine war

AI SUMMARY

Nine foreign nationals aged 20 to 26 were arrested in Johannesburg while attempting to leave South Africa to join the war in Ukraine.

Nine foreign nationals were arrested by police while attempting to leave South Africa to join the war in Ukraine.
The individuals are aged between 20 and 26.
The arrests took place on Sunday morning in Johannesburg, specifically at the country's largest airport and a hotel named Biruma.
The group was detained while preparing to board a plane, though their specific destination was not clear.
The nine individuals were charged with violating national laws that prohibit acting as mercenary combatants without government authorization.
Interpol assisted in the operation because the individuals violated laws in their respective home countries.
Police have not disclosed the nationalities of the individuals, whether they intended to fight for Ukraine or Russia, or the organization that facilitated their travel.