International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has confirmed that two South African men who were recruited to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war have died. The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain unclear.
Lamola clarified that the two men were not among the 17 South Africans allegedly recruited under false pretences last year to serve as contract soldiers in the Russian military. That group was reportedly linked to a separate recruitment drive. Instead, the deceased were part of another scheme that took them to Moscow.
“Besides those who died, there are others who were part of the scheme. However, as a result of the cooperation and engagement between the two heads of state, and through our processes, most, if not all, South Africans have now been released from the frontline. What we are now dealing with is their return and, as and when they arrive in South Africa, the law must take its course,” Lamola said.
Of the 17 initially recruited, 15 have returned home, while two remain in Moscow. Lamola stressed that those responsible for recruiting the men must be held accountable.
He also urged citizens to exercise caution when considering employment opportunities abroad. “We call on all South Africans who are recruited outside the country for any form of work to verify, with our missions in any country around the world, the authenticity and legitimacy of any employment scheme they intend to join,” he said.
VOC News
Photo: X/@DIRCO_ZA
