EAST LONDON – The Deputy Principal of Sinomonde Primary School in East London, Vuyokazi Gana (52), briefly appeared at the East London Magistrate’s Court, facing allegations of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and running a brothel.
Her case, which was postponed for a formal bail application, is scheduled for today (23 October 2025). Gana has been remanded in custody.
The Hawks’ spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, confirmed that their Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit executed Gana’s arrest following a prolonged investigation into allegations of human trafficking and prostitution involving young women recruited from the former Transkei region.
The investigation, initiated in September 2023, uncovered claims that a female suspect, who is a teacher in East London, recruited young women from Qumbu, Mthatha and Ngqeleni. Gana is said to be facing seven counts of related offences.
“The victims were allegedly transported from various areas to East London, housed at the suspect’s residence, and coerced into prostitution. Preliminary findings revealed they engaged in sexual activities with clients and paid accommodation fees ranging between R250 and R300 per night. The suspect reportedly profited from these funds,” said Mhlakuvana.
He further alleged that Gana either personally collected the proceeds or directed victims to transfer funds into her bank account.
A warrant of arrest was authorised, leading to her swift apprehension at her workplace in East London. “She is facing charges of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and operating an illegal brothel,” he added.
Major General Obed Ngwenya, Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commended the investigating team’s diligence and pledged the Hawks’ continued commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks preying on vulnerable individuals.
Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape Department of Education’s Head of Department (HOD), Sharon Maasdorp, distanced the department from Gana’s alleged actions. She condemned the alleged conduct, stating, “These actions strip women of their dignity and human rights.”
Maasdorp emphasised that human trafficking and sexual exploitation are severe criminal offences in South Africa, asserting that such behaviour tarnishes the department’s reputation. Should Gana be found guilty, her name would be added to the Sexual Offences Register, disqualifying her from teaching or working with children in South Africa.
The case will also be referred to the South African Council for Educators (SACE) for disciplinary review. “This breach of professional conduct will be addressed through the department’s internal processes,” Maasdorp stated.
She further revealed that three educators on the Sexual Offences Register had already been dismissed and reiterated her department’s commitment to eliminating criminals from the education system.
“We are finalising vetting processes for all educators to ensure criminals do not enter the system,” she concluded.
