Security
Canadian National Esubalew Belete Released After Over a Year in Detention
BBC · 1 hour ago · Read the Full Story on BBC
AI SUMMARY
Esubalew Belete, an Ethiopian-born Canadian citizen, has been released and acquitted of terrorism charges after spending over a year in detention in Ethiopia.
- Esubalew Belete, a Canadian citizen of Ethiopian origin, was released from detention on October 8, 2026 after being held for over a year since October 4, 2025.
- The Federal High Court Lideta Division 1st Anti-Terrorism and Constitutional Affairs Bench unanimously acquitted him of all four charges.
- He was one of 30 suspects who refused to sign a conditional apology document offered to detainees accused of terrorism linked to the Amhara region conflict.
- He was originally arrested by security forces at Bole International Airport on October 4, 2025, while attempting to board a flight to Canada after attending his mother's funeral.
- The prosecution faced four counts alleging he provided logistical support to armed forces in the Amhara region by collaborating with Fano supporters abroad, but failed to provide sufficient evidence.
- While in detention, he lost his job as a senior ground technician at Toronto Pearson Airport after the airline waited over 10 months and hired a replacement.
- His imprisonment resulted in severe personal and financial fallout, including a ruined credit score, canceled car insurance, and the loss of his rented apartment and belongings.
- He received advisory support from Canadian embassy officials during his trial and is finalizing arrangements to return to Canada.
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