50 foreign nationals escape alleged hostage situation in Lombardy East, Johannesburg

Over 50 foreign nationals reportedly escaped from a house in Lombardy East, Johannesburg, amid allegations of human trafficking.

Over 50 foreign nationals reportedly escaped from a house in Lombardy East, Johannesburg, amid allegations of human trafficking.

Image by: Picture: File

Published Mar 26, 2025

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At least 50 foreign nationals allegedly escaped on Wednesday from being held hostage in Lombardy East, north of Johannesburg.

According to reports, the people escaped from a house in Lombardy East on Wednesday. 

Police were on the site and are investigating. No arrests have been made, and the whereabouts of the escapees and their captors remain unknown.

Reports indicate that the incident is believed to be connected to human trafficking.

Gauteng police have not yet released a detailed statement.

In January, police rescued 15 Ethiopian nationals who had been held against their will in a house in Lombardy East, Johannesburg.

The house was suspected of being involved in human trafficking of Ethiopian nationals.

Eleven victims were hospitalised, while dozens — many of whom were naked — escaped the scene.

*This is a developing story.

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