Ethiopia Detains 49 Agency Owners in Human Trafficking Probe; Government and Diplomats Under Scrutiny
The National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) of Ethiopia has announced the detention of 49 agency owners as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged illicit human trafficking operations. The detentions were carried out in collaboration with the Ethiopian Federal Police, following a comprehensive study and monitoring of trafficking networks both domestically and internationally.
Investigation and Findings
According to a statement from NISS released to state media, the investigation revealed that nearly 15,000 Ethiopian nationals departed the country through unauthorized channels between August 2023 and June 2024. The study identified brokers operating both within Ethiopia and abroad as key players in this criminal network.
The NISS statement detailed that “various entities, including individuals employed at embassies, are involved in these activities, with tourist and work visas acquired through illicit connections being exploited.” Despite the government’s efforts to regulate labor deployment abroad—including agreements with other nations and the licensing of over 1,200 agencies—some agencies have been found to engage in illegal activities while masquerading as legitimate operations.
Government and Diplomatic Involvement
The inquiry has also implicated certain individuals within government structures. The NISS highlighted serious risks faced by Ethiopians involved in these unlawful labor deployments, including human rights abuses, psychological trauma, rape, organ theft, and even death. Furthermore, the agency revealed that “citizens are being assembled in a central location and sold through negotiations with employers after traveling to foreign countries by sea, land, and air.”
This development follows Ethiopia’s commitment to “promptly investigate” allegations of mistreatment of its nationals abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously indicated that the government would cooperate “in tandem with the Saudi authorities” concerning Ethiopian immigration issues.
Human Rights Concerns
The investigation comes on the heels of a Human Rights Watch report alleging that hundreds of Ethiopian migrants were shot and killed by Saudi border guards using explosive weapons while attempting to cross the Yemen-Saudi border. This report has raised concerns about potential crimes against humanity.
Public Appeal
In light of these revelations, the NISS has called for public assistance in addressing the issue. The agency urged citizens to report any information related to suspected cases of human trafficking to the relevant authorities. “Nothing can be hidden from the eyes and ears of the people,” the NISS declared, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat these criminal activities.
The ongoing investigation into human trafficking and the involvement of various entities, including government officials, highlights the urgent need for effective measures to combat these criminal activities. Public cooperation and vigilance will be crucial in addressing and resolving these serious issues.
