Seven Chinese nationals have been handed 20-year prison sentences in South Africa after being convicted of smuggling Malawians across the border and forcing them into hard labour. The four men and three women were found guilty of human trafficking and kidnapping after a lengthy trial, bringing an end to a case that began nearly six years ago.
The story traces back to 2019, when police raided a Johannesburg factory called Beautiful City and uncovered shocking conditions. Ninety-one Malawians, including 37 children, were found working there in what authorities described as modern-day slavery. The raid was triggered by a brave worker who managed to escape and tip off the police.
Investigators revealed that the victims were smuggled into South Africa in shipping containers before being locked inside the factory. They were forced to work 11-hour shifts daily, without rest, protective gear, or proper food. Survivors told the court that they were never allowed to leave the compound, and the meals provided were dirty and unfit for human consumption.
Even worse, the workers were grossly underpaid — receiving far less than the legal minimum wage of $1.64 an hour — and faced deductions whenever they asked for time off. This violated South Africa’s labour laws, which guarantee fair hours, safe conditions, and weekly rest.
The traffickers — identified as Kevin Tsao, Chen Hui, Qin Li, Jiaqing Zhou, Ma Biao, Dai Junying, and Zhang Zhilian — were convicted on 158 of 160 charges. Tsao was singled out as the factory manager, while the others acted as supervisors.
South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority hailed the judgement, stressing that it sends a strong warning to traffickers. Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the harsh sentence proved the country’s determination to fight what she called a “scourge.” The Department of Labour also praised the ruling, calling for deeper collaboration to root out trafficking networks.
Officials admit South Africa has become a hotspot for trafficking, serving as a source, transit, and destination country. Porous borders, poverty, and weak enforcement often leave migrants vulnerable to exploitation. This case, one of the most high-profile in recent years, is now seen as a landmark ruling — proof that the courts are ready to hand down tough punishments to traffickers.
