Eritrea’s Criminal Underbelly: Kidnappings, Ransom Demands Emerge

A New Front in Organized Crime

As the world grapples with combating organized crime, a new development has emerged in the Sinai Peninsula and Libya. Criminal actors are allegedly kidnapping individuals for ransom, sparking concerns over potential involvement from criminal groups in Sudan or Egypt.

The Authoritarian Government’s Role

While Eritrea lacks notable mafia groups, its authoritarian government, led by President Isaias Afwerki, has allowed few foreign criminal actors to operate within the country. The PFDJ, the sole political party in power since 1991, has been dismissive of suggestions for political reform, leading to a lack of transparency and accountability.

Criminal Justice System Flaws

Eritrea’s criminal justice system is plagued by human rights violations and impunity, with no independent judiciary or democratic institutions. Prison conditions are harsh, characterized by severe overcrowding and life-threatening situations.

Corruption and Smuggling

The government’s weak law-enforcement capacities and corruption have led to the smuggling of people and goods, including narcotics. Eritrea’s cash-based economy and widespread use of informal money transfer systems make it vulnerable to money laundering.

Human Trafficking and Smuggling

In a shocking twist, there is mounting evidence that the government controls and profits from human trafficking and smuggling. The country lacks proactive victim identification mechanisms or standardized instruments for referring trafficking victims to proper care.

Muzzled Media and Repression

The media in Eritrea are heavily restricted, with 16 journalists reported imprisoned in 2019. Non-governmental organizations are not permitted to operate, and independent media outlets were shut down in 2001. The government has no regard for the freedom of assembly, meting out lethal force and arbitrary detentions against those who dare to protest.

International Concerns

As the world struggles to combat organized crime, Eritrea’s lack of transparency and accountability has raised concerns over its potential involvement in these criminal activities. Will the international community take notice and demand change from this authoritarian regime? Only time will tell.