Seven Chinese Nationals Jailed 20 Years for Kidnapping and Forced Labour in South Africa

Seven Chinese Nationals Sentenced to 20 Years in South Africa for Human Trafficking and Child Labour

Johannesburg, September 10, 2025 – Seven Chinese nationals were sentenced to 20 years in prison by the Johannesburg High Court for human trafficking and child labour violations. The group, convicted on 158 out of 160 charges, exploited 91 Malawian workers, including 37 children, under hazardous conditions in a factory raid in Johannesburg’s Village Deep area during 2024.

The individuals – Kevin Tsao, Chen Hui, Qin Li, Jiaqing Zhou, Ma Biao, Dai Junying, and Zhang Zhilian – operated through Beautiful City Pty Ltd, which was also fined R300,000. Authorities allege that the syndicate forced workers into long hours with little pay and subjected children to dangerous labour conditions.

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Victims and Conditions

Investigations revealed that workers were intimidated by multiple “bosses” within the organization. Some victims remained silent for fear of retaliation, citing the presence of firearms and threats against family members. Children were reportedly made to work in unsafe environments, while adult workers faced harsh treatment and restricted freedom.

A relative of one of the convicted, identified as Nancy Xiao, expressed outrage at the sentencing, claiming her mother’s poor health made imprisonment inhumane. She alleged that influential figures protected the “real boss,” who remains at large, and vowed to appeal the verdict.

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Legal Proceedings and Public Response

The sentencing marks a significant step in South Africa’s ongoing crackdown on foreign exploitation rings. Authorities are investigating allegations that the operation was part of a larger trafficking syndicate.

While the court has delivered its ruling, public reactions have been mixed. Some praise the judgment as a deterrent against human trafficking, while others, including family members of the accused, argue that certain individuals were unjustly imprisoned and that the true orchestrators of the scheme have yet to face justice.

Authorities’ Statement

Officials from law enforcement and labour departments emphasized that human trafficking remains a critical issue in South Africa. The case underscores the need for vigilant monitoring of foreign-owned businesses and strict enforcement of labour laws to prevent further exploitation of vulnerable workers.

The convicted nationals have the right to appeal, and legal proceedings are expected to continue next month as their lawyers consider challenging the 20-year sentence.