In a statement, the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) expressed its deep concern over the detention and the deportation of 62 Somali youngsters, who were reported to be working in the mining area in Milho, Puntland. These youngsters were arrested from Bosaso and later handed over to the authorities of the Somali region of Ethiopia , ONLF said in the statement. It stated that the authorities gave various explanations about the reasons for their arrest and the way they were deported. It disclosed that some of the authorities in the Somali region of Ethiopia described the youngsters as individuals who were trafficking to other countries in the region, but information received indicate that the youngsters were employees, who were working in the mining area of Milho, and who came to Bosaso for a short visit. Furthermore, It went on to say that no substantial evidence has been publicly presented to support the allegations of trafficking. The statement also questioned the legal basis for the arrest and transfer of the youth, enquiring what the charges were and the legal authority in bringing them to Ethiopia within days after their apprehensions. The organization revealed that there are reports indicating that Ethiopian security officers met with the youngsters while they were in detention in Bosaso prison, before they were taken to Ethiopia. It argued that the transfer of people across international borders must go through an efficient legal process, judicial oversight and the protection of basic human rights. The organization further disclosed that this incident raises serious concern over the observance of legal procedures, constitutional rights and international standards of human rights, calling for an independent investigation into circumstances surrounding the detention and the deportation of the young people. Conversely, It highlighted in its statement that many young people living in the Somali region of Ethiopia face unemployment, limited economic opportunities, forcing them to look for work outside regions of Ethiopia. In the statement, It warned that youth should not be used in political disputes between different parties. In conclusion, It called on human rights organizations of the United Nations, civil society organizations and all relevant parties to closely monitor the situation of these young people in order to ensure their safety, dignity and the protection of their basic rights
