The Spanish Civil Guard arrested 17 people for facilitating irregular migration and smuggling on the Almería coast

The Spanish Civil Guard, within the framework of Operation “ALINDA”, has carried out an operation against criminal organizations and other criminal groups operating in the province of Almería, resulting in the arrest of 17 people and the investigation of two others, for the alleged crimes of robbery, facilitating irregular immigration, smuggling and risk due to the probability of injury to the life, health or property of people, such as that produced in the irregular transport of flammable substances.

The operation resulted in the seizure of over 10,000 liters of gasoline, distributed in more than 400 containers, as well as 4 vehicles and 5 boats. Additionally, 147 migrants were rescued.

In addition, more than 400 people, 200 vehicles and a large number of boats have been identified in marinas and coastal areas, where a stolen boat has been recovered and 70 administrative sanctions have been proposed for different regulations, including those related to the transport of dangerous goods such as fuel used by irregular high-speed boats used by criminal organizations.

This action is part of the work carried out by the Civil Guard in the fight against criminal organizations dedicated to facilitating irregular migration and drug trafficking, and in the use of logistical means and capabilities in this type of crime.

It should be noted that, among the objectives of the operation, was the pursuit of essential logistical activities linked to “shipping,” crew changes, and the supply of food and materials for vessels that are permanently in territorial waters.

The operation has been carried out by the Air Service, the Provincial Maritime Service of Almería, as well as the Strait Maritime Group, the Rapid Action Group, the Reserve and Security Group and various units of the Civil Guard of Almería, as well as the Regional Center for Analysis and Intelligence against Drug Trafficking based in Seville.