German Police Raid Iraqi-Kurdish Smuggling Network in Major Operation
Over 500 officers targeted a network accused of smuggling migrants from the Middle East and Africa to the UK via the Channel in unsafe boats.
- The raids, centered in North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg, were coordinated with Europol and French authorities.
- The network allegedly transported migrants in low-quality inflatable boats, endangering lives during Channel crossings.
- More than 10 European arrest warrants were issued, targeting both leaders and members of the smuggling group.
- At least 72 migrants have died during Channel crossings in 2024, highlighting the dangers of these operations.
- Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called the raids a significant step against international human smuggling.
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