Mediterranean smuggling network ‘dismantled’ in Spain-led raid, 78 arrested
Summary
Spanish authorities, with help from Europol and police in several countries, broke up a large criminal network involved in smuggling migrants, drugs, and weapons across the Western Mediterranean. The operation led to 78 arrests, seized high-speed boats, and uncovered a criminal group that moved thousands of people and large amounts of drugs between Europe and Algeria.Key Facts
- The operation was led by Spain’s Civil Guard and National Police in 2023 and peaked on June 16.
- 78 people were arrested, mostly in Spain, with one arrested in Algeria.
- The network smuggled migrants from Algeria to Spain and synthetic drugs the other way.
- They conducted at least 64 smuggling trips, moving more than 2,000 migrants and making over €24 million.
- Migrants were packed into overcrowded, dangerous boats, sometimes tied down, and faced violence.
- The group also provided services like boat maintenance, refueling, and hiding from police to other crime groups.
- Money was moved using informal hawala systems, making tracking difficult.
- Searches happened in 17 locations across Spain, including Alicante, Almeria, Cartagena, and Murcia.
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