South African police arrested nine foreign nationals over an alleged attempt to travel from the country to take part in the Russia-Ukraine war, authorities said on Nov. 9. The South African Police Service said the arrests followed an investigation and that the suspects were expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court.

Police said the arrests took place at the OR Tambo International Airport and a hotel in Bruma, a suburb of Johannesburg. The allegation is that the group was trying to leave South Africa to participate in the war; no court finding of guilt has been reported.

What South African police have confirmed

The police statement said the suspects may face charges related to South Africa’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act 15 of 1998. Authorities did not announce a court date in the statement, saying only that the group was expected to appear soon. The next steps in the case will depend on court proceedings.

The arrests concern alleged attempted travel to join the conflict, not confirmed participation in combat. The available police statement does not identify the foreign nationals’ home countries or provide a detailed account of how the alleged plan was organized.

Why the case matters

The announcement comes as diplomatic efforts continue over the war. The Globuzz recently reported on planned Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi; the South African arrests are a separate domestic law-enforcement case, and authorities have not linked it to those discussions.

Police allegations must be tested through the legal process. Until evidence is presented and assessed in court, the nine people remain suspects, and the reported travel plan should not be treated as proof that they took part in the fighting.

Sources

South African Police Service statement (Nov. 9, 2026); Associated Press report (Nov. 9, 2026); eNCA report (Nov. 9, 2026).