Law enforcement agencies across Europe have conducted coordinated raids targeting a criminal network smuggling migrants across the English Channel using inflatable boats. The operation, led by Europol and involving authorities from Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of assets.
Investigators identified the network as a sophisticated operation procuring large inflatable boats and outboard motors, which were then used for dangerous crossings. The group is suspected of smuggling hundreds of migrants, charging thousands of euros per person for the journey.
The crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to combat people smuggling on the Channel route, which has seen continued migratory pressure. Europol stated the operation significantly disrupts the network's logistics and procurement capabilities.
