AIN TEMOUCHENT – Authorities in Ain Temouchent have successfully thwarted an attempt to illegally transport 71 individuals across the Mediterranean Sea. The operation, a joint effort between local police and the Coast Guard’s marine unit in Bouzedjar, dismantled a transnational organized crime network.
According to a statement released by authorities, the operation was launched following the rapid and precise utilization of intelligence regarding a planned illegal migration operation using Algeria’s western coastline to reach European shores. The intercepted vessel, intercepted off the coast of Ain Temouchent, carried 71 undocumented migrants of various nationalities, including 40 of Moroccan nationality.
The investigation, led by the Wilaya’s anti-migrant smuggling and human trafficking unit, resulted in the identification and arrest of three individuals suspected of orchestrating the voyage, including two Moroccans. Among those attempting the crossing were also six Moroccan minors.
The operation, conducted under the supervision of the specialized penal division in Oran, led to the seizure of a high-speed vessel equipped with three 300-horsepower engines, satellite communication devices, a GPS navigation system, and 42 passports, some of which were Moroccan. Authorities also confiscated sums of foreign currency, including Euros, Moroccan Dirhams, US Dollars, and Pakistani Rupees.
The suspects have been presented before the specialized penal division in Oran for further legal proceedings.
