Spain dismantles Mediterranean smuggling ring, arrests 78

Spanish authorities, with international support, have dismantled a major criminal network described as one of the largest and most dangerous maritime smuggling operations in the Mediterranean. The operation, announced on August 7, 2026, resulted in the arrest of 78 suspects across Spain and Algeria and the seizure of 18 high-speed vessels.

The network operated a sophisticated two-way smuggling route between Algeria and Spain, functioning like a logistics company for organized crime. According to Europol and Spanish police, the group transported synthetic drugs from Spain to North Africa. On return voyages, they smuggled migrants into Spain, primarily to the southeastern coast and the island of Ibiza. Officials believe the organization carried out at least 64 smuggling operations, bringing more than 2,000 migrants into the country and generating profits exceeding 24 million euros.

Authorities described the network as highly professional and violent. It provided storage, transport, refueling, vessel maintenance, and counter-surveillance services to other criminal groups. The suspects allegedly used a fleet of powerful "ghost" speedboats, which are banned in Spain due to their...