78 Arrested in Mediterranean Smuggling Bust

Spanish and Algerian authorities have arrested 78 suspected members of a major Western Mediterranean smuggling network, Europol said. The operation targeted a criminal organisation accused of moving drugs, weapons, migrants and fugitives between Europe and Algeria, while also engaging in extortion, violent robberies, illegal detention and money laundering.

Authorities searched 17 locations across Alicante, Almería, Cartagena and Murcia. Seized items included 18 high-speed vessels valued at more than €5 million, 15,000 MDMA pills, 61 kilograms of hashish, 500 grams of cocaine, firearms, ammunition, communications equipment and more than €25,000 in cash. Three of those arrested were identified as high-value targets.

According to Europol, the network operated as a logistics provider for multiple criminal groups. It allegedly supplied boats, fuel, storage, crews and counter-surveillance services, using powerful vessels to transfer drugs, weapons and migrants at sea. Investigators estimate that migrant smuggling alone generated more than €24 million, with some passengers reportedly charged up to €12,000 per crossing.

The investigation involved Spanish police and the Guardia Civil, along with law enforcement agencies from France, Portugal and Poland. Europol provided intelligence coordination, database checks and technical support during an action carried out on June 16, 2026. The agency said the operation was supported by its European Centre Against Migrant Smuggling and European Cybercrime Centre.