A 20-year-old Harare woman is facing human trafficking charges after allegedly recruiting Zimbabweans with promises of lucrative truck driving jobs in Russia, only for them to be forced into labour linked to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Sofia Leonova appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court charged under the Trafficking in Persons Act following investigations by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
Prosecutors allege that between January and May 2026, Leonova worked with five Russian nationals — identified only as Victor, Marshy, Sam, Phillip and Michael — who remain at large, to recruit six victims for labour exploitation in Russia.
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The court heard that the accused advertised truck driver vacancies on Facebook, promising attractive salaries and favourable working conditions. Interested applicants were reportedly recruited during meetings held at various locations in Harare.
Leonova allegedly arranged medical examinations, processed travel documentation and secured accommodation for the recruits in Eastlea while they waited for visas and air tickets.
Upon arrival in Russia, the victims were allegedly received by accomplices who confiscated their travel documents. Prosecutors say the victims were then subjected to labour exploitation through forced involvement in the armed conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine.
The case surfaced after the victims alerted relatives in Zimbabwe, prompting a police investigation. Authorities arrested Leonova following the reports.
Police also rescued five additional individuals who were allegedly being prepared for travel — three intercepted at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and two at a lodge in Eastlea.
The victims remain in Russia, while the Department of Social Welfare is working to facilitate their return to Zimbabwe. Investigations are ongoing.
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