Seven men have been arrested in connection with a suspected criminal organisation accused of smuggling migrants into Spain through the south-east coast. Six of the arrests took place in Alicante province and one in Marseille, France.

Police believe the network was based in Alicante and used high-powered semi-rigid boats, often described as ‘taxi boats’, to transport mainly Algerian migrants to the coasts of Alicante, Murcia and Almería. The suspects, aged between 25 and 40, are Algerian and Libyan nationals. They face allegations including offences against the rights of foreign nationals, membership of a criminal organisation, smuggling and property-related crimes.

The operation, codenamed Barón-Galón, began in mid-2025. Officers carried out three searches, two in Alicante city and one in Santa Pola, seizing documents, cash and mobile phones linked to the alleged network.

Investigators say some of the boats had been stolen in Spain and France, while others were obtained using false paperwork or rental contracts. The group is also believed to have had logistical support, including fuel supply, accommodation and surveillance of ports. The investigation remains ongoing, with further action possible.