4 in court over alleged trafficking of Zimbabweans to Russia

Four suspects have appeared in court facing human trafficking charges after allegedly facilitating the movement of Zimbabweans to Russia, where the victims were reportedly forced to participate in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Obert Hlavati, Tonderai Maphosa, Tanaka Malcon Gwarada and Edson Dudzayi Nyamudeza appeared before Harare magistrate Jessi Kufa over the weekend. They were not asked to plead.

Prosecutor Oscar Madhume told the court that between February and March this year, the quartet allegedly worked with a Russian national identified only as Ivan to traffic six Zimbabweans under the guise of employment opportunities.

According to the State, the victims were lured with promises of jobs as firefighters in Russia, attractive salaries and favourable working conditions.

Investigations revealed that the alleged recruiter, Ivan, used social media platforms including Facebook, Telegram and WhatsApp to identify potential victims before referring them to Gwarada, who is said to have coordinated local arrangements.

Gwarada allegedly received about US$8 167 through EcoCash and a bureau de change in Eastlea, Harare, in multiple instalments. He is accused of accommodating the victims in lodges and safe houses in the central business district while processing their travel.

The court heard that Maphosa handled logistics such as food and accommodation, while Hlavati assisted the victims in obtaining passports and medical reports.

Once documentation was completed, the victims were allegedly transported to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, where Nyamudeza  -  said to be an airport official  -  facilitated their departure.

Upon arrival in Russia, the victims allegedly had their travel documents confiscated and were forced to join the country's "special operation" in Ukraine as fighters.

The case came to light after concerned relatives alerted authorities in Zimbabwe, prompting police investigations.

Authorities say the victims remain in Russia, with the Department of Social Welfare working to secure their return.

Further investigations uncovered plans to send four additional victims abroad. Detectives intercepted the group at the airport on March 24, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

The accused are expected to return to court as investigations continue.