Cape Town – Two suspects appeared in the Danielskuil Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape on charges of trafficking in persons, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said on Thursday.
Hawks spokesperson, Captain Philani Nkwalase, said a case of human trafficking was opened Tuesday after two minors, aged 15 and 16, had successfully escaped and reported the matter to the police.
"The minors were lured into visiting their friend in Postmasburg from Kimberley on January 9. Upon arrival, they were forced into prostitution by night and were locked up during the day."
Austine Okoye, 37, was arrested on February 12 for a separate and unrelated matter, and his arrest contributed to the minors' successful escape from Angel Vigillance Williams, 26, who was later arrested.
"The minors were taken to a place of safety in an undisclosed location.
"We therefore appeal to other possible victims in Postmasburg area to break the silence and report human trafficking activities to the police," Nkwalase said.
The case against the duo was postponed to February 24 for a bail application and they remain in police custody.