A 52-year-old deputy principal, Vuyokazi Gana, has been denied bail at the East London Magistrate’s Court after being arrested and charged with human trafficking and running a prostitution ring in East London.
Gana, who works at a primary school in Orange Grove and resides in the Quigney suburb of East London, is accused of recruiting young women from rural towns in the former Transkei, including Qumbu, Mthatha and Ngqeleni under false promises.
The victims, reportedly aged between 16 and 23, were allegedly brought to her Quigney home, where they were forced into sex work while staying at her house.
The state alleges Gana charged them between R250 and R300 per night for accommodation and took control of the proceeds, either by collecting cash or directing funds into her bank account.
The investigation by the Hawks – Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in East London reportedly began in September 2023. Gana was arrested on 15 October 2025 and appeared in court on initial charges including multiple counts of human trafficking.
The next court appearance is scheduled for 28 November 2025 while Gana remains in custody.
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