Spanish police bust gang using children to smuggle migrants from Morocco

Spanish police have dismantled a criminal network that forced minors to skipper boats smuggling migrants from Morocco to Spain. The gang, which made €2.8 million ($3.2 million) charging over 200 migrants €14,000 each, also trafficked drugs. Eight suspects—Spanish and Moroccan nationals—were arrested in raids in Algeciras, Ibiza, and Ceuta. Europol warned the use of child skippers increased risks of fatalities and exploitation. Police seized 22kg of cannabis, 10,800 Clonazepam pills, €50,000, vehicles, boats, and weapons. The gang used the same vessels to transport drugs both ways.