Italian authorities have made significant strides in dismantling clandestine migration networks, with the recent arrest of three Tunisians in Trapani following charges filed by the District Anti-Mafia Directorate of Palermo (DDA). These arrests are part of an operation targeting individuals involved in aiding and abetting clandestine migration, particularly utilizing high-speed boats to ferry migrants from Tunisia to Italy.
On March 16, a judge for the preliminary investigation (GIP) issued three precautionary orders against the accused Tunisians, as requested by the Palermo DDA. They face charges of criminal association aimed at facilitating clandestine migration, with cross-national involvement aggravating the situation.
The operation, conducted by agents of the mobile squad operating under the State Police’s central operational center, stems from investigations initiated following the arrest of ten individuals on February 21. Among those apprehended were six Italians and four Tunisians suspected of establishing cells in Italy and Tunisia to orchestrate migrant transfers, boasting “VIP travel” standards.
Three of the accused are already incarcerated for these organized journeys, which involved clandestine crossings facilitated by skilled and swift swimmers. These individuals were paid substantial sums, ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 euros, to ensure the smooth passage of migrants. The operation specialized in offering expensive trips, accommodating a minimal number of migrants, typically under 20 individuals, under optimal weather conditions, aboard dinghies equipped with powerful engines.
Additionally, the organizers guaranteed Tunisians seeking passage a swift and secure journey, assuring them of avoiding interception by military vessels.
Two of the trio arrested over the weekend, who were residing irregularly in Italy, were already in custody following their earlier apprehension during the ongoing investigation.
The roles of the three detained individuals include two alleged smugglers implicated in separate incidents involving the arrival of ghost boats. On June 29, one accused attempted to evade authorities by sea after disembarking 14 migrants upon police sighting, only to be thwarted by engine failure. Similarly, on August 14, investigators intercepted a dinghy off the coast of the Sicilian isle of Favignana.
The third arrestee is believed to be responsible for recruiting Tunisian smugglers. During the operation, three additional individuals from Marsala (Trapani) were subjected to precautionary measures and obligated to appear before judicial police. These individuals were accused of providing logistical support to the criminal network under scrutiny.