South African radio DJ among five charged over Russia recruitment plot

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete December 1, 2025 at 09:20 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

South African radio DJ Nonkululeko Patricia Mantula and four men were arrested and charged with violating the Foreign Military Assistance Act for allegedly recruiting individuals to join the Russian military. The arrests occurred after authorities intercepted the group at Johannesburg's airport as they attempted to travel to Russia via the United Arab Emirates. Prosecutors allege Mantula facilitated the travel and recruitment of her co-accused. The case is separate from a previous incident involving 17 South Africans reportedly lured into fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Mantula and the other accused appeared in court and were remanded in custody, with their next court appearance scheduled for December 8 for a bail application.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Johannesburg ×250% SABC 80% Nonkululeko Patricia Mantula ×5100% Russia ×3100% South Africa ×4100%

Keywords

russia recruitment plot 90% south africa 80% foreign military assistance 70% regulation of foreign military assistance act 70% russia-ukraine war 60% mercenary forces 60% national prosecuting authority 50% legal charges 50% radio presenter 50%