L'Aquila police arrest Egyptian migrant smuggler

State Police in L'Aquila have arrested a 27-year-old Egyptian man accused of acting as a human smuggler. The individual, who was previously a guest at a local extraordinary reception center (CAS) as an international protection seeker, was apprehended following investigations coordinated by the Public Prosecutor's Office of L'Aquila.

Authorities allege that in May 2025, the man organized and executed the transport of at least 22 people from Libya to the coast of Lampedusa aboard a boat. The operation reportedly charged approximately 3,500 euros per migrant. The investigation suggests the crime was committed with the assistance of an organized criminal group operating across multiple states, with bases in Libya dedicated to managing migrant collection centers and organizing transport to Italian shores.

Two other members of the criminal organization are also under investigation. One was allegedly responsible for managing the vessel's satellite phone, while the other was tasked with fueling the engine.