Spanish authorities arrested nine people and dismantled a migrant smuggling network that allegedly transported irregular migrants from Algeria to Spain and onward to other European countries, Europol said.
The operation was carried out jointly by Spain’s Guardia Civil and National Police, with support from Europol. Investigators said the network operated in the province of Almería and coordinated both Mediterranean crossings from Algeria and the movement of migrants toward France and other parts of Europe.
Authorities conducted coordinated raids in Almería, Roquetas de Mar, Vícar and Adra, arresting nine suspects and seizing cash, drugs, vehicles and equipment allegedly linked to the smuggling operation.
According to Europol, officers seized 43,000 euros ($49,000), 61 kilograms of hashish, three high-powered engines, 30 vehicles, two large boats, bladed weapons, an air pistol and false documents. Investigators said the network had invested more than 500,000 euros in movable and immovable assets used to support its activities.
Officials said the organisation was made up of Algerian, Moroccan and Spanish nationals and operated through a hierarchical structure with clearly assigned roles.
Leaders allegedly supervised the overall operation, while administrators coordinated members and managed logistics linked to the smuggling routes. Another group was tasked with providing operational support and security.
Investigators said the network was divided into branches handling different stages of the journey. One branch organised boat departures from Algeria and arrivals on the Spanish coast, while another facilitated onward travel from Spain to France and other European Union countries.
Authorities said the group had access to fast boats, fuel and experienced captains, allowing it to support both its own operations and other criminal groups. Some members allegedly reported boats used in smuggling activities as stolen in an effort to obstruct investigations.
Europol said migrant smuggling remains a major criminal threat to the European Union and requires coordinated action targeting recruitment, transport logistics and financial networks.
The agency said it supports national investigations through operational analysis, information-sharing and joint operations.
Europol also highlighted the creation of its European Centre Against Migrant Smuggling, established in March 2026 under new EU legislation adopted in December 2025. The centre is intended to strengthen information exchange, operational coordination and expertise in areas including open-source intelligence and financial investigations.
