The National Policehave arrested three men of Algerian origin for alleged crimes of human trafficking and illegal immigration after the arrival of a boat in Formentera on January 1. The skippers were identified as responsible for the dangerous crossing that put the lives of the immigrants at risk.
Rescue in Formentera
The vessel, a fishing boat, was intercepted in the area of La Mola, in Formentera, with several occupants on board. According to the authorities, the adverse weather conditions and the poor condition of the boat seriously compromised the integrity of the passengers.
The Red Cross provided initial health care to the immigrants, while the Local Brigade of Foreigners and Borders initiated the procedures to manage the return of the occupants to their country of origin.
Investigation and arrests
After a series of inquiries by the National Police’s Aliens Unit, the three alleged skippers of the boat were identified. These individuals had organized the trip from Algeria, without considering the security measures required at international level and exposing the immigrants to extremely dangerous situations.
The crossing and its risks
The immigrants on board faced precarious conditions, aggravated by storms off the coast of the Pitiusas and the poor condition of the vessel. Authorities have pointed out that these types of operations are frequent in the area, especially during times of difficult sea conditions, which increases the danger of these clandestine journeys.
Legal Actions
The three men arrested were handed over to the Juzgado de Instrucción de Guardia in Ibiza, where they will have to answer charges related to human trafficking and illegal immigration. This case highlights the growing problem of immigrant trafficking on the coasts of the Pitiusas.
