Migrant Smuggling Network Dismantled in Spain, 78 Arrested and 18 Speedboats Seized

One of the largest criminal organizations involved in migrant smuggling in the Mediterranean has been dismantled by Spanish police.

As part of the operation, 78 people were arrested, including four individuals suspected of running the network. Authorities also seized 18 high-speed boats worth more than five million euros.

Investigations indicate that the organization is suspected of carrying out at least 64 operations through which more than 2,000 migrants were illegally transported to the coast of Spain and the island of Ibiza.

The network is estimated to have made more than 24 million euros from this activity. Migrants were charged up to 12,000 euros per journey, while as many as 50 people were transported on a single speedboat.

The vessels were also used to traffic synthetic drugs, including ecstasy.

According to Spanish police, the journeys were made at high speed and in rough seas, exposing the migrants to extreme danger. In some cases, they were tied down to prevent them from falling into the water during the crossing.

The operation was carried out with Europol’s support and in cooperation with the French, Portuguese and Polish police.