Authorities in Garissa County have raised concern over a growing human trafficking network luring local youth with false promises of employment opportunities abroad.
Speaking during a peace tournament final held in Iftin Location, Garissa town, County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo warned young people against falling victim to international trafficking syndicates reportedly operating from Libya.
The event, facilitated by Iftin Chief Dekow Mohamud, was aimed at strengthening ties between law enforcement and the community.
Mwabudzo revealed that an increasing number of families have come forward to report their children missing after being enticed with job offers, only to later discover they had been trafficked across borders.
In several cases, traffickers are demanding large sums of money from families to release their loved ones, plunging already struggling households into deeper financial distress.
“The deception is targeting vulnerable youth who are promised better lives, but instead face exploitation and abuse,” he said. “Families are being forced to sell livestock and property to pay ransoms.”
The commissioner urged young people to explore local economic opportunities and make use of government empowerment programmes designed to equip them with practical skills for self-reliance.
He also cautioned individuals working in collaboration with the traffickers, noting that the government would not hesitate to take action against them.
Iftin Ward MCA Mustafa Abdirashid confirmed that more than 10 youth from the area have already fallen prey to the trafficking scheme.
He called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work closely with Libyan authorities to ensure the safe return of the victims.
“We’re witnessing an alarming trend where our young people are being misled into dangerous situations. This needs urgent intervention,” Abdirashid said.
He encouraged local youth to enroll in vocational training programs available across the county, noting that many of these institutions offer free courses in trades that can lead to sustainable employment.
He also emphasized the importance of taking advantage of bursary schemes to pursue further education rather than risking their lives abroad.
The Peace Cup tournament, which saw AC Milan defeat Radicals 1–0 in the final, served not only as a sports competition but also as a platform for spreading messages of peace, unity, and youth empowerment. Both teams were awarded kits, footballs, and cash prizes.
Organizers said the tournament was part of a broader initiative to promote community-police collaboration and to steer youth away from crime and harmful networks through sports and civic engagement.
