Dutch Court Pauses Trials of Two Eritrean Human Traffickers: Missing Signatures and Delayed Extradition

In a series of connected cases, the Dutch court in Zwolle heard two human trafficking cases involving Eritrean nationals on April 16, 2023. However, one of the trials was paused due to the absence of critical signatures from a defendant, Zekarias Habtemariam Kidane, currently detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Connected Cases: Extortion and Human Smuggling

Two separate cases were due to be heard in the Dutch court on April 16. In the first, defendant Zekarias Habtemariam Kidane was expected to face trial for his involvement in a criminal network extending to hostage-taking, extortion, and sexual violence. In the second, Tewelde Goitom (also known as Amanuel Welid) was accused of being part of this same criminal network for his role in human smuggling.

Delayed Proceedings: Searching for Kidane

The judge raised concerns over Kidane’s awareness of his rights and the potential trial in absence due to the missing signatures. The hearing was delayed, postponing further discussion of the merits of the case. Over 30 individuals attended the provincial courtroom, including journalists, NGO representatives, and academics.

Communication Challenges with the UAE

Dutch authorities had requested Kidane’s extradition since January 2023, but communication on the matter had stalled. Kidane, identified by Dutch authorities as a notorious human smuggler, had been detained in the UAE since his arrest in Sudan in January 2023.

Tewelde Goitom’s Trial: Concerns over Length and Testimonies

Though Goitom was not present for the hearing, concerns were raised by his defence lawyer, Simcha Plas, regarding the length of the trial as Goitom had spent a significant amount of time in pre-trial detention. Kidane was also subpoenaed by the defence and prompted a consideration of whether to collect his testimony remotely or in person.

Further Developments: June 2023 and Beyond

The next hearing on both cases is scheduled for July 4, 2023, with the full trial potentially not commencing until early 2025. The implications of these trials could go beyond the prosecution of human trafficking and extortion. Addressing violence-related crimes and potentially uncovering evidence of crimes against humanity may be possible outcomes.

The Fight Against Human Trafficking: Unveiling Complexities and Collaborating for Justice

The Eritrean Human Rights Defenders (EHRD) chairman, Tadese Teklebrhan, attended the proceedings and expressed his hopes for justice not only for those directly involved but also for the Eritrean people. Both Teklebrhan and Hadish Mebrahtu from EHRD emphasized the importance of understanding the truth behind the human trafficking network. The ongoing trial can serve as a starting point for exposing the extent of the problem.

Experts, such as Mirjam van Reisen, professor of International Relations at Tilburg University, have shared insights about the ties between the criminal network and Eritrean government officials. This complex case sheds light on a lucrative ransom system perpetuated through the hawala, an informal money transfer system used for coercing payments from the families of migrants.

International collaborative efforts, including the European Union, ICC, Interpol, and Europol, aim to tackle human trafficking and related crimes in Libya and beyond. The limitations on data exchange hamper the progress of these investigations, leaving many seeking answers disappointed. However, van Reisen remains confident that “there is no indefinite impunity.”