Eastern Cape teacher arrested for human trafficking and prostitution involving young women
Eastern Cape teacher has been arrested for alleged human trafficking and prostitution involving young women.
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A 52-year-old Eastern Cape teacher has been arrested for alleged human trafficking and prostitution involving young women recruited from the former Transkei region.
Provincial Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said investigations which started in September 2023 revealed that the teacher who works at a school in East London, has been recruiting young women from Qumbu, Mthatha, and Ngqeleni.
"The victims were allegedly transported from different areas to East London, where they were ostensibly housed at the suspect’s residence and coerced into prostitution," said Mhlakuvana.
Mhlakuvana added that preliminary findings revealed that the victims were engaged in sexual activities with various clients, from whom they reportedly received payments.
"The suspect supposedly profited from these illegal activities by charging accommodation fees ranging between R250 and R300 per night, depending on the room. It is further alleged that she personally collected the proceeds or directed the victims to transfer the funds through her Bank account," said Mhlakuvana.
Mhlakuvana said the teacher was arrested at her workplace in East London on Wednesday.
The suspect is facing charges of trafficking in persons, sexual exploitation and running an illegal brothel.
She is expected to appear before the East London Magistrate’s court on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Head of Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the persistent efforts of the investigating team and reiterated the Hawks’ commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks that prey on vulnerable individuals in the province.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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