JOHANNESBURG - More arrests have not been ruled out as South African authorities crack down on a network that's recruiting South Africans to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Five suspects, including an SABC broadcaster accused of being a recruiter, have made their first court appearance.
They'll be back on 8 December for a bail application.
Nonkululeko Mantula, Xolani Ntuli, Thulani Mazibuko, Siphamandla Tshabalala and Sfiso Mabena are charged with contravening the Foreign Military Assistance Act.
A tip-off from the OR Tambo SAPS regarding three males en route to Russia via the United Arab Emirates led to the arrests.
Mantula, an SABC broadcaster, and Ntuli allegedly facilitated the recruitment of their co-accused into the Russian Federation Military.
WATCH: Legal expert explains military recruitment charges and possible penalties
Electronic devices and backpacks have also been seized for further investigations
Coordination with intelligence and international law enforcement agencies is ongoing to determine the full extent of the network and any further security threats.
- eNCA senior reporter Silindelo Masikane has more.