A 52 YEAR OLD TEACHER ARRESTED FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND RUNNING A BROTHEL AT HER HOUSE
East London – A 52-year-old school teacher from East London in the Eastern Cape has been arrested by the Hawks for allegedly running a human trafficking and prostitution operation from her home.
According to the Hawks, the suspect, who has not yet been named, is accused of recruiting young women from rural parts of the province and forcing them into prostitution. The women were allegedly kept at her property in East London, where they were made to sleep with clients for money.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) began investigating the woman in **September 2023** after receiving several reports about suspicious activities taking place at her home.
Investigations revealed that the teacher allegedly targeted unemployed young women from areas such as **Qumbu, Mthatha, and Ngqeleni**, promising them jobs and a better life in the city. However, once they arrived in East London, the women were allegedly kept under control and forced into prostitution.
It is further alleged that the teacher charged clients between **R250 and R300** per session, taking most of the proceeds for herself. The property was reportedly being used as a brothel, with rooms rented out for illegal sexual activities.
Hawks spokesperson **Captain Yolisa Mgolodela** confirmed that the woman was arrested on **Tuesday, 15 October 2025**, at her workplace — a local school in East London.
“She was taken into custody after a lengthy investigation into human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Evidence gathered during the operation linked her directly to the recruitment and exploitation of several young women,” Mgolodela said.
The suspect appeared briefly in the **East London Magistrate’s Court** on **Wednesday, 16 October**, facing charges of **human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and operating a brothel**. The case was postponed to allow for further investigation.
News of the teacher’s arrest has shocked the local community and the education sector. Many parents and colleagues have expressed disbelief that someone trusted to educate children could be involved in such serious crimes.
“This is the kind of story that leaves you speechless,” said one community member outside court. “We trusted her as a teacher, not knowing what was happening behind closed doors.”
The Hawks’ Provincial Head, Major-General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, praised the investigative team for their dedication in bringing the suspect to justice.
“Human trafficking remains one of the most serious crimes in our province, and we will not rest until those involved are held accountable,” Ngwenya said.
He also urged communities to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious recruitment activities, especially those targeting young or vulnerable women.
The case has reignited debate over the growing problem of **human trafficking in South Africa**, particularly in the Eastern Cape. Experts say traffickers often prey on poverty-stricken individuals by luring them with promises of employment or education.
Organizations advocating for women’s rights have called for stronger awareness campaigns, especially in rural communities where unemployment and vulnerability remain high.
The accused remains in custody pending her next court appearance, where the State is expected to oppose bail.
The Hawks have confirmed that more arrests may follow as investigations continue into possible accomplices and clients who may have participated in the illegal operation.
This is a developing story.** Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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