Synchronized Security Operations Free 402 Foreign Hostages After Island Raid and Fierce Clashes

Kassala — Security and police authorities in Kassala State carried out two synchronized operations that resulted in the rescue of 402 foreign hostages, including women and children, who had been held by human trafficking mafias and subjected to extortion and torture. The operations involved armed confrontations and raids on hideouts and waterways across the state.

The first operation followed precise intelligence received by Kassala State Police regarding a criminal network holding hundreds of foreigners at an isolated location. A joint security force was subsequently formed under the supervision of the State Police Director and carried out a surprise raid on an island in the Setit River, southwest of Kassala.

The raid resulted in the rescue of 252 foreigners, who were immediately transferred to the State Police headquarters, where they received urgent medical and humanitarian assistance as victims of human trafficking, pending completion of the legal procedures. Major General (Police) Dr. Hinai Mohammed Ibrahim said the operation was carried out in full coordination with the State Security Committee to dismantle criminal networks and pursue those involved.

In a related operation, the Anti-Smuggling Directorate led another complex operation in the southern sector of the state, in the Feriniqa area, east of Wad Biaa village near the Atbara River.

Acting on confirmed intelligence, the force raided the site and succeeded in rescuing 150 people of different nationalities, including women, children, and young people. The gangs had been holding them to extort their families and demand “financial ransoms” in exchange for their release.

As the force withdrew while securing the hostages, members of the gang attempted to flee toward the eastern bank of the Atbara River and opened heavy fire on the security force. The force responded decisively and in accordance with rules governing the use of force, while making the safety of the hostages its top priority. The operation resulted in the seizure of four Kalashnikov assault rifles abandoned by the perpetrators before they fled across the river.