JOHANNESBURG- One of the family members of the South African men who were recruited to fight as soldiers in the Russian military says he still does not know who was behind this process.
The family member claims prior to the journey there had been briefings with the men.
Upon arrival in Russia, they were made to sign contracts of which they declined until they were persuaded that the programme was legit, he said.
He said they thought they were going to training.
"They knew nothing. They did not even know what they were signing because it was written in Russian. They only realised the seriousness of this matter when they found themselves being deployed in the frontlines," he said.
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The family member said the men now are anxious about what will happen next. This as their statements have been taken.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said those who recruited South Africans to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war should be held accountable.
Thus far, 15 South Africans who ended up as contract soldiers in the Russian military have returned home
Initially government received distress calls from 17 South African men, aged between 20 and 39, seeking for assistance to return home.
An investigation continues into how they were recruited.