Nine Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested in South Africa for allegedly attempting to travel to Russia to fight in the ongoing war against Ukraine. South African authorities say the arrests were made at OR Tambo International Airport and at a hotel in Bruma, east of Johannesburg.

The suspects are accused of attempting to leave the country to join the conflict on Russia’s side. Several African nationals, including citizens of Kenya, Ghana and South Africa, have reportedly travelled to Russia to fight in the war. Some are alleged to have been lured by promises of lucrative employment, only to discover that they were being recruited for military service in Ukraine.

Lulu Gaboo spoke to Security Strategist and retired Interpol Ambassador Andy Mashaile.