Archive · 19 Nov 2025
Netherlands Seeks 20-Year Sentence for Eritrea-Libya Trafficking Suspect
A man named Amanuel Walid, also known as Tewelde Goitom, is on trial in the Netherlands for running a human trafficking operation from Libya.
He is accused of detaining and torturing African migrants to extort money from their families.
Prosecutors want him to spend 20 years in prison.
The trial is hearing from victims who suffered through these experiences.
Amanuel Walid (Tewelde Goitom) ran a migration route to Europe via Libya
He and his organization detained and tortured thousands of African migrants
Prosecutors seek 20-year prison sentence
Victims testified about harrowing experiences in overcrowded warehouses
Defense argues lack of Dutch link, trial ongoing
- Who
- Amanuel Walid (Tewelde Goitom)
- What
- Human trafficking, torture of African migrants in Libya
- When
- 2014-2019
- Where
- Libya
- Why
- To extort ransoms from families of migrants
Prosecution
Defense
Dutch Link
Prosecution
Prosecution argues universal jurisdiction applies due to victims in the Netherlands
Defense
Defense argues lack of clear Dutch link, charges should be dismissed
- Suspect's Age
- 42
- Estimated Number of Victims
- Thousands
- Trial Location
- Zwolle, Netherlands
- Expected Verdict Date
- January 2023 (subject to change)