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A protestor holds a placard at a march against human trafficking.
A 47-year-old foreign national is expected to appear in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, facing charges of contravening the Immigration Act and suspected human trafficking.
He was arrested in Johannesburg on Tuesday, after ten teenage boys were rescued from a suspected trafficking operation.
The teenage boys are also believed to be foreign nationals.
Eight boys were found half-naked walking along a street in Mulbarton, south of Johannesburg.
Two others had been taken away in a blue VW Jetta, prompting a high-speed chase through Johannesburg before the suspect was finally apprehended.
Officers say the teens, who appeared disoriented and vulnerable, were immediately taken to a place of safety and provided with support.
Authorities say the rescue highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat human trafficking.
Investigations continue to determine how the boys were brought into the country and whether other suspects were involved in the alleged trafficking operation.
VIDEO| Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale say they are investigating the suspect’s country of origin:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9d6tmKf3Ew
