The National Police has arrested five Algerian nationals accused of skippering boats that arrived irregularly to the coasts of Ibiza and Formentera during the first week of November. The arrests are the result of an investigation aimed at stemming the flow of illegal immigration from the Algerian coasts to the Balearic Islands. The boats, coming from localities such as Tipasa, El Hammamet (Oran) and Zeralda, were transporting migrants in extremely precarious conditions. According to the authorities, the boats lacked sufficient life jackets, water, food and other basic resources, exposing the occupants, including minors and families, to serious risks during the sea journey.
An operation to ensure security and dismantle networks
The Unit Against Immigration Networks and Documentary Falsehoods (UCRIF) and the Operational Group for Foreigners (GOE) led the operation, interviewing migrants to identify the organizers of the trips. Investigations revealed that the employers instructed the occupants on what to answer to the authorities in case of interception, thus hindering inquiries. After their arrival, the adults were processed for their return to Algeria, while the unaccompanied minors were referred to specialized centers and the families were relocated to welfare facilities. The five detainees, charged with offenses related to the rights of foreign nationals and favoring illegal immigration, have already been brought before the courts.
Continuity in the fight against illegal immigration
The National Police has underlined its commitment to the fight against illegal immigration networks, calling these arrests an important step towards dismantling the criminal groups that organize these dangerous journeys. Investigations continue to analyze the methods and structures of these networks, as well as to prevent future incidents that endanger the lives of migrants.
