The Durban businessman arrested on allegations linked to human trafficking on Tuesday, 11 August, has been remanded in custody after appearing in a Durban court on earlier today.
The man, who cannot be named until he has pleaded to the charges, faces a string of serious allegations, including sexual assault, human trafficking, kidnapping, and contraventions of the Cybercrimes Act and Films and Publications Act. He is expected to apply for bail on 25 August.
The court heard that the accused had submitted a doctor’s note and was subsequently transferred to the Westville prison hospital, where he will remain until his next court appearance. An application by the media for live coverage of the proceedings was opposed by both the defence and the State, citing the sensitive nature of the case. The magistrate ultimately denied the application.
The arrest follows reports that five women were allegedly found at a property linked to the accused. Further details surrounding the circumstances of the arrest and the allegations are expected to emerge as the matter progresses through the courts.
