Call to victims of human trafficking from the Horn of Africa
Did you flee the Horn of Africa between 2016 and 2024, and did you make the journey to Europe via Sudan and Libya? And during that trip, were you a victim or witness of human trafficking, extortion and/or (sexual) violence? If so, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar) would like to get in touch with you.
ንትግርኛ ኣብ`ዚ ጠውቕ።
Voor Nederlands, klik hier.
Case details
Crime scene: Sudan and/or Libya
Date of crime: between 2016 and 2024
Contact details
WhatsApp, Viber or IMO: +31 6 575 70 711
Mail: contactus@mindef.nl
Here, you will find the story of a witness who fled Eritrea and had contact with detectives from the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. He explains how that contact took place and why it is important to testify.
Criminal networks surrounding human trafficking
The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee is investigating criminal networks involved in human trafficking via the so-called Central Mediterranean Route (CMR) to Europe. This is the route taken, for example, by people fleeing Eritrea. Various sources show that there is still a lot of violence against migrants on their way to Europe, especially in Sudan and Libya. In these countries, thousands of people are locked up in camps. They are only allowed to travel further if family members pay a substantial fee. This often involves gross violence.
New criminal investigation
Previously, suspects within a criminal network involving human trafficking via the CMR were identified and arrested by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. A new criminal investigation by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee focuses on other networks on this migration route, so more perpetrators can be brought to justice. Statements from victims and witnesses are very important for the investigation.
Special telephone number
Are you or do you know someone who has been a victim or witness of human trafficking between 2016 and 2024 on the route mentioned? You can send a message in your own language using one of the options below. After receiving your message, someone from the investigation team will contact you. Even if you are not yet sure whether you want to testify and would like to have a no-obligation conversation first, you can send a message in your own language to ask your questions and discuss your doubts. Under certain conditions, it is possible to testify anonymously.
WhatsApp, Viber or IMO: +31 6 575 70 711
Mail: contactus@mindef.nl
If you have any photo or video material that may be relevant to the investigation, please report it in one of the ways mentioned. You can get an upload link to send your images securely.