Authorities in Ethiopia have dismantled a major human trafficking network accused of causing the deaths of more than 100 migrants and exploiting thousands across Africa and beyond.
According to officials, ten suspects, including the alleged ringleader, were arrested in the northern town of Shire in the conflict-affected Tigray region. The suspects have since been transferred to the capital, Addis Ababa, where investigations are ongoing.
Police say the criminal network lured young people from countries such as Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Kenya, and Somalia with promises of helping them migrate to Europe. Instead, many victims were taken to Libya, where they were held captive in warehouses.
Authorities estimate that over 3,000 people were trapped by the group over the years. Victims were reportedly subjected to severe abuse, including torture, starvation, and sexual violence. Families were forced to pay large sums of money to secure their release, while those who could not pay were often beaten or left to die.
Investigators revealed that the group’s operations generated more than €16 million. Bank accounts linked to the suspects have now been frozen, and their assets seized.
The trafficking ring is believed to have operated since 2010, targeting vulnerable migrants, especially young people affected by instability and displacement. The situation in regions like Tigray, which has faced years of conflict, has made many people more susceptible to such networks.
The operation was supported by Interpol through its Regional Operational Centre initiative, which helps countries track and dismantle trafficking and smuggling networks across East Africa.
Authorities say the investigation has also helped identify over 70 additional suspected traffickers operating across multiple countries. Statements have been collected from victims’ families in Africa, Europe, and North America as part of the case.
What did the trafficking ring do?
The group lured migrants with false promises of travel to Europe, then detained them in Libya, where they were tortured and forced to pay ransom. Many victims died due to abuse and harsh conditions.
The arrests mark a major step in tackling human trafficking in the region, but officials warn that such networks remain widespread, fueled by poverty, conflict, and the demand for migration routes to Europe.