Department spokesperson Nelson Kgwete said they had received news of the arrests on Sunday and that it had been confirmed by the Chinese authorities.

While the charges against the group were unclear, the South African embassy in Beijing was expected to handle the matter.

The arrest of the 10 came to light on Tuesday, following a statement from the Gift of the Givers.

Available: http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Govt-in-contact-with-families-of-SA-nationals-held-in-China-20150714