The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Addis Ababa has strongly cautioned Sri Lankan youth against using illegal migration corridors through Africa to reach Europe or North America, following the repatriation of three nationals rescued from a human trafficking network in Ethiopia.
In a statement, the embassy said border controls across African transit nations are exceptionally tight, and that dealing with unauthorised smugglers exposes travellers to grave safety hazards, exploitation, heavy penalties for visa overstays and severe legal consequences. It advised citizens to use only official, legitimate channels.
Held for a USD 30,000 ransom each
The three Sri Lankans arrived at Bole International Airport on 24 May 2026 seeking onward passage to Europe or North America through irregular travel channels, the embassy said.
Shortly after landing they were abducted by a human trafficking network. Their families in Sri Lanka subsequently received ransom demands of USD 30,000 per person.
They were freed in a coordinated operation by Ethiopian security authorities and returned to Sri Lanka on 30 July 2026, after judicial procedures and consular formalities were completed.
A route already under investigation
The case matches one reported in June, when a Kilinochchi court remanded a suspect accused of arranging illegal travel for three people from Jaffna bound for Canada via Ethiopia, where an organised gang took them hostage on arrival.
The Criminal Investigation Department’s Human Trafficking, Smuggling and Maritime Investigation Division has led a series of cases this year against networks selling overseas passage and jobs. In August the Cabinet approved a national plan to implement UN migration guidance aimed at curbing trafficking and irregular migration.
Sources: Ada Derana.
