Germany Cracks Down on Major Human Smuggling Ring

Authorities arrest 10, including two lawyers, in a widespread raid across multiple states for smuggling Chinese nationals.

Over 1,000 police officers participated in the raids, targeting 101 locations in eight German states.
The ring allegedly exploited immigration rules for skilled workers to illegally obtain residency permits for about 350 individuals, mostly from China.
Suspects charged clients hefty sums, ranging from 30,000 to 350,000 euros, for assistance in obtaining these permits.
Assets were seized and significant evidence collected during the raids, with about 210,000 euros in cash secured.
The operation was led by the federal criminal police from Cologne, with an increase in people smuggling cases noted across Germany in recent years.