Nine foreign nationals have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport and a hotel in Bruma, Johannesburg, in connection with an alleged attempt to travel from South Africa to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale says the suspects, aged between 20 and 26, were arrested on Sunday following an intelligence-driven operation.
The arrests followed a multidisciplinary investigation involving Interpol, the Hawks in Germiston, international law enforcement agencies, SAPS Crime Intelligence, the Gauteng Provincial Tracking Team and other law enforcement structures.
The suspects are expected to face charges relating to the alleged contravention of the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act 15 of 1998.
They are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court.