Zambian authorities have disrupted a human trafficking network following the interception of a vehicle carrying 13 Ethiopian nationals on the outskirts of Lusaka. The operation, executed on Monday morning, also led to the detention of two Zambian suspects, with a third individual reportedly evading capture.

The incident unfolded during a routine inspection at a motor screening point established by the Zambia Police Service. Officers flagged down a suspicious vehicle with heavily tinted windows, a feature that immediately aroused their attention. Upon inspection, the officers uncovered a harrowing scene: individuals stacked on top of one another, later identified as Ethiopian nationals.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the group had undertaken an arduous journey from Ethiopia, traversing Kenya and Tanzania, with the intention of reaching South Africa. Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga stated, “The group was en route to meet an individual whose identity we are withholding to avoid compromising the ongoing investigation.”

The intercepted individuals, described as frail and disoriented, have been placed under police protection. Authorities are conducting further interviews to determine the full extent of the trafficking operation and to establish the identities of those responsible.

This case highlights the persistent challenges faced by countries in the region in curbing human trafficking, a multi-billion-dollar industry that preys on vulnerable individuals. The incident underscores the importance of coordinated efforts among African nations to combat such crimes, particularly along well-trodden routes that traffickers exploit.

While the detained Zambian suspects remain in custody, law enforcement agencies continue their pursuit of the third suspect, whose apprehension could be pivotal to unravelling the network’s operations. The Zambian government has reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting the rights of migrants.

The plight of the trafficked Ethiopians serves as a stark reminder of the desperation faced by those fleeing economic hardship or instability in search of better opportunities, often falling victim to unscrupulous intermediaries who capitalise on their vulnerability.