Saint-Louis, Senegal migrant trafficking ring broken, eight arrested

Senegalese authorities in Saint‑Louis dismantled a network that was planning to transport migrants by boat to the Spanish Canary Islands. Eight individuals were remanded to the public prosecutor on charges of criminal association and attempted migrant trafficking. The operation followed an intelligence tip about foreign nationals hiring a pirogue for an irregular crossing. After targeted surveillance beginning 16 July, police intercepted the group on 19 July as they prepared to board at Guet‑Ndar. The suspects said the vessel would first stop in Gambia before heading for the Canaries, and that two outboard engines were being supplied from Mauritania. In addition to the eight main suspects, investigators detained the motor holder – who said he acted on instructions from the alleged network leader – and a driver who had transported three convoys from Foundiougne to Saint‑Louis. The chief suspect is already known to the anti‑trafficking division, and the investigation continues to locate remaining accomplices.