Mpumalanga police have arrested nine Nigerian nationals in Ermelo for alleged human trafficking. The suspects are alleged to have been drugging women and forcing them into prostitution.

Police spokesperson Leonard Hlathi says they have rescued 12 women aged between 17 and 32 from the alleged gang. He says one of the young women was found dead behind a house she had been renting in Ermelo.

Hlathi adds that the suspects were also found in possession of fake documents. The young women have been taken to a place of safety. The suspects are expected to appear in court on April 16 when they're to apply for bail.

Fake documents

Another six Nigerians have been arrested for possession of fake documents in Ermelo. Hlathi says the six suspects earlier applied for asylum in South Africa using fake documents.

Human rights lawyers have confirmed the escalation of human trafficking between Mozambique and South Africa. Last week, Parliament tabled the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill.

The Bill, which is aimed at preventing and combating trafficking in persons will also assist in the protection and assistance of victims of trafficking. It will also provide for the prosecution of persons involved in trafficking and for appropriate sentences.