Ethiopia has sentenced five people to death for human trafficking, marking a historic first, state media reported. Thousands of Ethiopians annually embark on the perilous eastern route, crossing from Djibouti to Yemen by sea. They seek work in wealthy Gulf states, hoping to escape conflict and poverty gripping their homeland.
Many migrants come from the northern Tigray region, devastated by war between 2020 and 2022. On Monday, Yemeni officials reported a tragic shipwreck off their coast, killing at least 76 Ethiopian migrants.
Dozens remain missing after the boat, carrying mostly Ethiopians, sank in the Red Sea. Justice Minister Belayhun Yirga announced the death sentences Wednesday, calling it the first such ruling for organised trafficking.
The Ethiopian Herald did not reveal details about the convicted individuals’ nationalities or specific charges. Though Ethiopia retains the death penalty, executions are exceedingly rare, with the last recorded in 2007.
Human trafficking remains a grave issue as desperate migrants risk everything for a chance at survival abroad. This landmark verdict signals a tougher stance by Ethiopian authorities against those exploiting vulnerable migrants.
The nation faces ongoing challenges balancing justice, human rights, and the humanitarian crisis driving migration. As the death toll rises, Ethiopia’s response underscores the tragic cost of fleeing war and poverty by sea.