Security forces in Yemen's eastern Mahra Governorate have apprehended a human trafficking ring consisting of 12 individuals, according to a statement released on Saturday, May 25, 2024. The operation, which targeted the ring's hideouts, aimed to disrupt the trafficking of Ethiopians to neighboring Oman.

Rashid Al-Salahi, Deputy Director of the Shihen Police Department in Mahra, confirmed the arrest in a statement carried by the official Yemeni News Agency (Saba). He revealed that the police conducted a security raid on several locations used by the traffickers, who were preparing to smuggle 213 Ethiopians across the border.

Al-Salahi further explained that the operation resulted in the capture of 12 individuals, including two individuals who worked as money changers and facilitated financial transactions between Yemen and Oman.

Following the arrests, the Ethiopian individuals were detained and are scheduled for deportation from the governorate. Meanwhile, the apprehended traffickers are facing legal proceedings, with their cases being referred to the Public Prosecution.

This marks the first time that security authorities in Mahra have publicly announced the dismantling of a human trafficking ring. Previously, they had reported the seizure of arms and drug trafficking networks.

Over the past eight years, Mahra, which shares a border with Oman, has witnessed a surge in smuggling activities, including the trafficking of weapons and various types of narcotics.

In August 2023, the President of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad Al-Alimi, acknowledged the efforts of the local authorities and security forces in Mahra in combating arms and drug trafficking, as well as organized crime. He praised their dedication, highlighting the governorate as a model for other regions in tackling these issues.