A group of South African nationals who were allegedly lured into fighting for Russia in its war against Ukraine arrived at Durban airport on Wednesday and were immediately taken for questioning, according to police.
The 11 men reached King Shaka International Airport and were ushered into a police station to be questioned about how they ended up on the front lines of the conflict in Ukraine, the Associated Press reported. AP said one of the men was taken off the aircraft in a wheelchair, while others carried their luggage in what appeared to be military-style bags.
The returns bring to 15 the number of South Africans who have now come back to the country, AP said, with two others still in Russia. President Cyril Ramaphosa said Tuesday that one of the men was still in hospital in Russia and that another would travel once his travel documentation has been finalized.
South African authorities have opened investigations tied to the recruitment of the men, AP said. Police spokesperson Col. Katlego Mogale said last week that an investigation has been opened in connection with South African laws which prohibit any citizen from taking part in foreign conflicts without authorization of the government.
AP also reported that at least five people are being investigated in connection with the recruitment, including Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma. AP said she has denied any wrongdoing and resigned as a lawmaker in South Africa’s parliament after the claims.
Five people were arrested in December and are due to appear in court in April on charges related to the men’s recruitment, AP said.