June 08, Colombo (LNW): Three Sri Lankan citizens who were reportedly abducted shortly after arriving in Ethiopia have been rescued safely following a multi-agency security operation that led to the arrest of six suspects.
The three men had travelled to the country in late May in search of employment opportunities. Shortly after their arrival, they were allegedly taken against their will and held at a separate location while their captors demanded a substantial ransom for their release.
Authorities launched an investigation after the disappearance of the individuals was brought to the attention of local police by the Sri Lankan Embassy. The case prompted a coordinated response involving several Ethiopian security and intelligence agencies.
Investigators utilised digital tracking and intelligence-gathering techniques to trace the whereabouts of the victims, eventually locating them at a residence in the town of Shashemene in the Oromia region. Security personnel subsequently carried out a raid on the property, successfully securing the release of all three hostages without reported injuries.
Six individuals were taken into custody during the operation. Those arrested include two Ethiopian nationals and four Pakistani citizens who are suspected of involvement in the abduction and ransom scheme. Authorities allege that the group had demanded approximately USD 90,000 in exchange for the victims’ freedom.
Reports indicate that the Sri Lankans were allegedly transported from the airport shortly after landing and held in captivity until law enforcement officers intervened. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the recruitment arrangements that brought the victims to Ethiopia.
The rescue operation was carried out through the combined efforts of national intelligence services, federal law enforcement agencies, cyber-security specialists and regional police units.