Two individuals have been apprehended in Spain for their alleged involvement in a human trafficking operation that smuggled irregular immigrants, including a minor, across the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, according to EFE.
The suspects, a 27-year-old and a 24-year-old, were arrested by the Customs Surveillance Service as part of a joint operation aimed at curbing illegal immigration and human trafficking, reports the same source.
The detainees were found in charge of a small boat that was ferrying irregular immigrants from Morocco to the Spanish coasts.
The boat, described as precarious, lacked essential safety elements and was deemed unfit for sea journeys.
The irregular immigrants, desperate for a chance at a better life, had paid an average of 5,000 euros each to be transported to Spanish shores.
The operation came to a head when the Customs Surveillance Service detected a boat without proper lighting, suspected to be involved in human trafficking.
Upon inspecting the vessel, law enforcement agents discovered that five out of the seven individuals on board were foreign nationals, and they lacked proper documentation to be in Spain.
The irregular immigrants were provided with immediate humanitarian aid, including medical assistance, warm clothing, and food, as the authorities ensured their well-being.
The arrested individuals are now facing charges of illegal trafficking of human beings and violations against the rights of foreign citizens.
