Probation officers demand jail for Chinese human traffickers
Law Violations
PROBATION officers have recommended direct imprisonment as the most appropriate sentence for seven Chinese nationals convicted of human trafficking, child labour, and multiple violations of South Africa’s labour laws.
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PROBATION officers have recommended direct imprisonment as the most appropriate sentence for seven Chinese nationals convicted of human trafficking, child labour, and multiple violations of South Africa’s labour laws.
The recommendation was presented today before the Gauteng South Division of the High Court in Johannesburg as part of pre-sentencing reports designed to assist the court in determining suitable penalties.
The convicted individuals are:
- Kevin Tsao Shu-Uei
- Chen Hui
- Qin Li
- Jiaqing Zhou
- Ma Biao
- Dai Junying
- Zhang Zhilian
On 25 February 2025, they were found guilty on 160 counts related to Schedule 6 offences — among the most serious under South African law.
While probation officers outlined alternative sentencing options — including correctional supervision, suspended sentences, and fines — they emphasised that, given the gravity of the crimes, imprisonment is the only proportionate response. They urged the court to weigh the severity of harm caused and the offenders’ culpability.
Two of the accused have prior criminal convictions.
The charges stem from the operation of “Beautiful City Pty Ltd,” an unregistered garment manufacturing enterprise based in Village Deep, Johannesburg. A joint raid on 12 November 2019 — conducted by the Department of Employment and Labour, SAPS Hawks, and the Department of Home Affairs following a tip-off — uncovered systemic exploitation, including child labour and human trafficking.
The accused were found guilty of:
- Human trafficking and facilitating trafficking
- Bondage and profiting from victims
- Aiding undocumented immigrants
- Violating labour laws by failing to: Register with the Compensation Fund or UIF; Maintain earnings records or submit returns; Pay required assessments; Ensure workplace safety or report incidents
All seven have remained in custody since their arrest, except Dai Junying (Accused No. 6), who was released on medical grounds.
Sentencing is expected in the coming weeks.