Spanish authorities have dismantled a major criminal group that was smuggling migrants from Algeria to Spain and other European Union countries. The operation, carried out by the Guardia Civil with support from Europol, revealed a large-scale network led by a Moroccan national and made up of Algerian and Moroccan members based in Spain.
The group used huge financial and logistical resources to run their smuggling business. Investigators found that they misused legal businesses, including maritime trading companies, to buy boats and equipment. They also relied on hawaladars to secretly move criminal funds.
Between 17 and 19 June, Spanish police carried out raids in Almería, Nijar, Tabernas, Espartinas (Seville), and Alicante. The action led to 14 arrests and searches at 8 different sites, including homes and industrial warehouses. Authorities seized 15 speedboats fitted with powerful engines, moulds for making boat hulls, maritime and electronic devices, over 100 gasoline canisters, two firearms, and more than EUR 68,000 in cash.
Investigators believe the network spent more than EUR 1 million on building and buying boats for smuggling runs. They used a network of companies in France and Spain to arrange logistics and buy nautical supplies. Each migrant was charged up to EUR 7,000 for a one-way, dangerous trip from Algeria to Spain on overcrowded boats.
The network was highly organized, with different cells handling separate roles. Some members managed boats and equipment, while others coordinated navigation and landing points on the Spanish coast. Additional groups supplied fuel, food, and communication systems or handled security during the risky crossings.
Europol played a key role by coordinating the exchange of information, supporting Spanish investigators in real time, and cross-checking evidence with its databases. This helped provide immediate leads during the operation.
The case highlights the dangerous and profitable business of migrant smuggling in the Mediterranean. Despite the risks, many migrants continue to attempt these crossings, driven by the hope of reaching Europe.