JOHANNESBURG - A new twist emerges in the Lombardy East human trafficking saga.
The families of three minors, part of a group of more than 30 Ethiopian nationals taken into custody, claim they have been kidnapped and are being tortured.
READ: Human trafficking | Lombardy East residents living in fear
They were reportedly sent back to their alleged kidnapper after appearing in court this week.
Worryingly, allegations have surfaced that police are involved in the illegal operation.
It's alleged the kidnappers, who are of Ethiopian origin, are now extorting money from families.
eNCA's Manqoba Mchunu spoke to one of the family members, through an interpreter.
Another family member says his brother's life has been threatened, if R85,000 is not paid to the kidnappers.