Ceuta police dismantle large-scale migrant exploitation ring

Spanish National Police have dismantled a major criminal organization operating a large-scale migrant safehouse in the El Príncipe neighborhood of Ceuta. The operation, conducted by the Central Unit for Combating Illegal Immigration Networks and Document Falsification (UCRIF), uncovered 74 individuals living in overcrowded and precarious conditions, including 10 unaccompanied minors.

The group consisted of 54 men, 10 women, and 10 minors. Authorities reported that the occupants were subjected to intimidation, violence, and labor exploitation. Investigations indicate that some minors may have suffered physical assaults, including injuries caused by dog bites.

A local resident has been arrested and identified as the primary leader of the criminal network. He faces charges including facilitating illegal immigration, violating workers' rights, causing injury to minors, and labor exploitation. The operation required a significant police deployment due to the complexity of the location and the perceived danger posed by the criminal group, whose members have extensive police records.