Police probe house where 13 youths found amid exploitation suspicions

Limpopo – Police in Limpopo have launched an investigation following the discovery of 13 individuals at a three-bedroom house in Legae La Batho, Seshego, outside Polokwane, amid suspicions of illegal activities and possible exploitation.

According to police, officers responded to a tip-off on Monday, 22 June 2026, and found several young men and women aged between 19 and 23 at the property.

“The police in Limpopo have launched an investigation following information received regarding alleged suspicious and illegal activities at a residential property in Legae La Batho within the Seshego policing area outside Polokwane,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

Preliminary findings suggest the group originated from various provinces, including Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.

“During initial interviews, some of the occupants allegedly informed authorities that they had been recruited to sell insurance policies and had been accommodated at the property for an extended period,” police said.

A foreign national, believed to be renting the house, was also found at the scene. Officials from the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services were called and later took the individual into custody after it was established that he was allegedly in the country illegally.

Police said investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the matter, including possible exploitation or unlawful recruitment practices.

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe urged members of the public to remain vigilant and assist authorities with information.

“The SAPS takes all allegations involving the possible exploitation of vulnerable persons seriously. We are conducting a thorough investigation to establish the facts surrounding this matter,” said Hadebe.

She added: “We appeal to anyone with information that may assist our investigation to come forward and work with the police in ensuring that justice is served.”

Members of the public have been urged to contact the nearest police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPSApp to report information anonymously.

Investigations are continuing.