Spanish police arrest suspected migrant boat captain in Fuerteventura

The Spanish National Police detained a man in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura, as the alleged captain of a fishing vessel that arrived with 20 migrants from Morocco. The arrest is part of the police‑led "Operación Maestre" carried out by the Local Brigade of Immigration and Borders.

The boat was intercepted on 24 July after being towed by maritime rescue to the Gran Tarajal dock, where rescued migrants received assistance. Police identified the suspect through testimonies, protected witnesses and photographic evidence, noting he lacked any nautical licence and had personally collected roughly 30,000 dirhams (about €2,700) from each passenger. He is charged with facilitating illegal immigration and endangering lives.

The investigation will continue in the judicial process.