Does the Algerian regime support hidden networks for irregular migration? Spain dismantles a criminal organization transporting irregular migrants from Algeria

ALDAR / Iman Alaoui

Spanish judicial authorities have ordered the detention of 12 out of 14 arrested individuals, suspected of being involved in a criminal network operating in southern Spain to transport irregular migrants from the Algerian coasts using 15 inflatable boats equipped with powerful engines, in which the network had invested more than one million euros.

According to police sources cited by Europa Press, most arrests took place in the province of Almería, where seven people were apprehended following eight raids on homes, warehouses, and shipyards in the capital and the areas of Tabernas and Níjar. The operation, named “Nautilita” by the authorities, also led to the arrest of three people in the Murcia region, three more in the province of Alicante, and one person in the municipality of Espartinas, in the province of Seville, while investigations continue regarding eight others suspected of involvement in the same activities.

Investigations revealed, according to the Spanish website Europa Press, that the network owned 15 inflatable boats between 7.5 and 8 meters long, equipped with powerful engines ranging from 200 to 425 horsepower, as well as two molds for building boat hulls measuring 8 and 14 meters, three additional engines of 300 horsepower, two short firearms, 133 fuel containers, and cash totaling €68,115.

The investigations also uncovered that the criminal network had a complex financial structure to support its illegal activities, particularly regarding logistics, purchasing “Go Fast” speedboats, and obtaining fuel to ensure the illegal transportation of migrants.

The detainees face charges of belonging to a criminal organization, money laundering, violating the rights of foreign citizens by facilitating irregular migration, smuggling, and illegal possession of weapons.

This operation confirms the ongoing efforts of Spanish authorities to combat human trafficking networks, which exploit the migration situation in the Mediterranean region to generate illicit profits, while maintaining strict coastal surveillance and pursuing anyone who facilitates illegal migration.