Driven by desperation and familial love, an Ethiopian man named Jamal embarked on a harrowing journey to find his sixteen-year-old nephew, who disappeared even as attempting to reach Saudi Arabia. Jamal’s story offers a stark illustration of the dangers faced by the tens of thousands of Ethiopians who travel the eastern migration route each year, a path stretching across arid landscapes of Ethiopia and Djibouti, the Gulf of Aden, and war-torn Yemen.
A Search Rooted in Family
Jamal’s motivation was deeply personal. He wasn’t seeking wealth or opportunity, but searching for a missing family member. His nephew had been kidnapped in Yemen, and despite a ransom payment, was never returned. “I had no choice,” Jamal stated. “My brother had no other children. I had to go after him.”
In a deliberate and dangerous move, Jamal placed himself in the path of traffickers in Yemen, hoping to be taken to the location where his nephew was held. The plan succeeded, and he was reunited with his nephew, concealing his recognition to avoid raising suspicion. While attempting to orchestrate their escape, and aiding other captives, Jamal was ultimately caught.
Brutal Consequences
The consequences were horrific. Jamal was subjected to brutal torture, witnessing the abuse of other captives, including beatings, mutilation, and burning. His captors repeatedly set his feet alight, causing permanent damage. Their escape was only possible due to fighting between rival trafficking groups.
After months of survival in Yemen, working as a car washer to fund his departure, Jamal reached Djibouti and received medical care and psychosocial support at an IOM Migrant Response Centre in Obock. He is now preparing to return to Ethiopia.
A Difficult Return
Jamal has yet to share the full extent of his ordeal with his mother, expressing concern for her well-being. “She saw me abandon in good health,” he said. “I am worried about her seeing me like this. I will have to explain it to her gently.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Jamal to travel to Yemen?
Jamal traveled to Yemen to search for his sixteen-year-old nephew, who had been kidnapped while attempting to migrate to Saudi Arabia.
What kind of support did Jamal receive in Djibouti?
Jamal received medical care for his injuries and psychosocial support to assist him cope with his experiences at an IOM Migrant Response Centre in Obock.
What is the current status of Jamal’s nephew?
The source does not state the current status of Jamal’s nephew, only that Jamal and his nephew were able to escape their captors amid fighting between trafficking groups.
Given the ongoing violence and exploitation along the eastern migration route, what further support and protection will be needed for vulnerable migrants like Jamal and his nephew?
