In a significant blow to human trafficking, the Spanish National Police (Policía Nacional), with support from Europol, has dismantled a sophisticated criminal network smuggling Algerian and Syrian migrants into the EU. The operation, spanning multiple cities, resulted in 21 arrests and uncovered a large-scale smuggling operation using fast boats to ferry migrants from Algeria to the Spanish coast.
🚤 Smuggling Operation Details
- Dates: 4th and 5th June 2024
- Locations Searched: 9
- Arrests: 21 (Madrid – 13, Almeria – 5, Guipuzcoa – 1, Málaga – 1, Murcia – 1)
- Seizures: Documents, electronic equipment, cash
💰 Cost of Illegal Passage
Migrants, mainly Syrian (750+) and Algerian (250+), paid up to EUR 20,000 each for their perilous journey. The network facilitated their travel from Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, or Libya to Algeria, followed by a dangerous sea crossing to Spain.
🛥️ Dangerous Journeys
Once in Algeria, migrants were temporarily housed before being transported in fast boats to Spain. These journeys were fraught with danger, as the overcrowded vessels lacked basic safety measures and essentials like food and water. The migrants were often surrounded by fuel canisters, adding to the risk.
🏠 Inhumane Conditions in Spain
Upon arrival, migrants were met by network members and housed in unsanitary and overcrowded conditions in Madrid. They awaited further transport to other EU countries, facilitated by the criminal network.
🧠 Network Structure
- Main Organizers: One in Algeria, one in Spain
- Activities: Coordinating smuggling operations, providing fake passports, plane tickets, and selling smuggling information to other groups.
💸 Financial System
Migrants paid for each stage of their journey via the hawala underground financial system. The network used spy cameras and hidden microphones to ensure payment.
👮 Europol’s Role
Europol played a crucial role in the operation by facilitating information exchange, providing operational coordination, and analytical support. On the action day, Europol deployed an analyst to Spain to cross-check operational information and provide leads to field investigators.
This operation marks a significant victory against human trafficking, highlighting the dangers faced by migrants and the ruthless efficiency of the smuggling networks. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.