South African police have arrested nine Zimbabwean nationals on suspicion of attempting to travel abroad to fight in the war between Russia and Ukraine, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

The suspects, all men aged between 20 and 26, were taken into custody at two locations in Johannesburg. Five were detained at OR Tambo International Airport, apparently preparing to board international flights, while four others were arrested at a hotel in the Bruma area.

The nine individuals now face charges under South Africa’s Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, a law that prohibits citizens and residents from engaging in unauthorized mercenary activities or providing military assistance to foreign entities without government approval. If convicted, they could face severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Authorities have not disclosed whether the group intended to fight for Russian or Ukrainian forces, nor have they identified the organizations allegedly behind their recruitment. Investigators are reportedly probing whether the suspects were acting independently or were part of a larger network involving private military companies or foreign recruiters.