The National Intelligence and Security Service announced that 76 foreign nationals and Ethiopians suspected of illegal gold, weapons, and money laundering have been arrested.

According to a statement sent to state media by the service, the suspects were arrested while operating in Addis Ababa, Benishangul Gumuz, Gambella, Oromia, Amhara, Sidama, and Southwestern Ethiopia regions.

The statement indicated that the suspects were involved in the illegal production, concealment, and trafficking of gold ore, the trafficking of various foreign currencies, including Ethiopian birr, and the trafficking of illegal weapons.

The National Intelligence and Security Service, in coordination with the Ethiopian Federal Police and regional security forces, has so far brought 45 foreign nationals and 31 local citizens, a total of 76 suspects, under legal control.