Tsheto Modise was formally charged with human trafficking when she made her first appearance at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Tsheto Modise appears in court for human trafficking charges
Accused of operating an illicit human trafficking ring, Modise’s court day was brief and the matter was rescheduled to a later date.
In a statement, Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela revealed that the 28-year-old accused trafficker was arrested after community members tipped off a local police constable about suspicious activity at a property in Palm Ridge, Katlehong.
“The officer went to the said premises where he found [eight] females of different ages,” WO Mavimbela stated.
The victims, all from Lesotho, were allegedly promised employment in South Africa through Modise’s online-advertised recruitment agency.
Upon her arrest, Modise was found in possession of 20 Lesotho passports, the legality of which she could not substantiate, further implicating her in the trafficking operation.
How did Modise lure her victims?
The investigation revealed that Modise’s victims were enticed with the promise of employment opportunities in South Africa, facilitated through her shoddy employment agency.
Each victim was required to pay R5 000, supposedly to secure employment. However, instead of receiving the promised jobs, the victims were housed together in cramped conditions, all residing in a single room rented by Modise.
This operation, advertised on the internet, preyed on the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking better livelihoods
When is her next court appearance?
The Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court has postponed the matter to Monday, 28 February 2024, to allow Modise time to obtain legal representation through legal aid.
This adjournment provides a window for further investigation and preparation by both the prosecution and the defence.
“The victims were all taken to a place of safety after undergoing medical assessment,” the Hawks confirmed.
