Spain and Algeria Arrest 78 Suspects in Major Drugs, Weapons and Migrant Smuggling Network
Authorities have dismantled a major criminal network accused of smuggling drugs, weapons and migrants between Algeria and Europe, arresting 78 suspects in a Spain-led operation supported by Europol.
The operation involved Spanish, French, Portuguese and Polish authorities, with 17 locations searched in Spain. Three high-value suspects were among those detained.
According to Europol, the network operated like a logistics provider for organised crime groups, offering boat storage, transportation, refuelling, maritime transfers, maintenance and counter-surveillance.
Investigators said the mainly Algerian network had links to criminal groups across France, Belgium, Portugal, Italy and Poland. It allegedly operated high-powered “ghost speedboats” to transfer drugs, weapons and migrants through international waters near the Spanish coast.
The group allegedly used violence, including firearms, threats and contract killings, while financial transactions were handled through the informal hawala system.
Authorities estimate the network earned more than €24 million from migrant smuggling alone, charging up to €12,000 per person. Migrants were reportedly transported in overcrowded and dangerous boats, often without lighting or life jackets.
