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Spanish authorities dismantle €1-million human smuggling network
Spanish police have arrested 14 suspects and dismantled a sophisticated human smuggling network that transported migrants from Algeria to Spain using high-powered boats. The criminal organization, dismantled during "Operation Nautilita," charged migrants up to €7,000 for perilous Mediterranean crossings.
Judicial authorities have ordered the detention of 12 individuals, while eight others remain under investigation. The operation, carried out with Europol’s support, reflects Spain’s intensified efforts to combat human trafficking.
Arrests across multiple regions
The majority of arrests occurred in Almería province, where seven suspects were detained after coordinated raids on homes, farms, shipyards, and warehouses in Almería city, Tabernas, and Níjar. Additional arrests were made in Murcia, Alicante, and Espartinas in Seville province.
Advanced fleet and equipment seized
Police confiscated 15 inflatable boats ranging from 7.5 to 8 meters, equipped with engines between 200 and 425 horsepower. Other assets seized included two long boat hull molds, three high-powered engines, two firearms, 133 gasoline cans, and €68,115 in cash.
The organization invested heavily in high-speed vessels, ensuring substantial fuel storage for continuous operations.
Financial and logistical sophistication
The network operated through a complex financial model. Investigators uncovered links to French-based holding companies that facilitated money laundering, alongside the use of "hawaladars," traditional brokers who transfer funds without physical cash movement. These funds were funneled back to Algeria to finance the operation.
The group also collaborated with maritime companies and shipyards specializing in vessel production, ensuring the availability of boats for their smuggling activities.
Charges and implications
The suspects face charges of criminal organization membership, money laundering, facilitating illegal immigration, smuggling, and illegal weapons possession. Authorities emphasized the severe risks migrants face during these dangerous sea crossings.
The case underscores Spain’s ongoing crackdown on human trafficking networks exploiting migrants attempting to reach Europe via the Mediterranean.