Algerian gang arrested for 'smuggling migrants across Mediterranean' in speedboats
An Algerian-led gang accused of using used high-powered speedboats to transport migrants paying up to €12,000 ($14,000) across the Mediterranean to Spain have been arrested. In total, 78 people have been detained, including three “high-value targets” who are suspected of being the ringleaders of the criminal organisation, says Europol, the EU’s law enforcement agency, in an operation launched by…
An Algerian-led criminal network is accused of transporting migrants across the Mediterranean using high-powered speedboats, according to Europol. In a joint operation involving Spain's Civil Guard and police, 78 individuals were detained, including three suspected ringleaders. The gang allegedly used 18 speedboats worth over €5 million, some equipped with up to four engines, to smuggle up to 2,000 migrants into Spain.
These "ghost speedboats" are designed to evade detection and are banned in Spain. The migrants, often crammed into overcrowded vessels without life jackets, faced harsh conditions during the journey. The gang, which originated as a drug and weapons smuggling operation, also engaged in violent crimes such as kidnapping, extortion, and money laundering.
They reportedly received payment of up to €12,000 per migrant and operated a complex network with roles ranging from skippering boats to managing finances. The gang is known for its extreme violence and use of firearms, and has ties to criminal groups in several European countries.
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