Security authorities in France and Italy dismantle a human trafficking network and an organization operating between the two countries.

The security authorities in France and Italy have managed to dismantle a human trafficking network and an organization operating between the two countries, resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals.

The Italian police stated in a press release today, Friday, that the network was transporting irregular migrants from the Italian Ventimiglia region to the French city of Nice, using about twenty cars and small trucks registered in France.

According to the statement, migrants were first contacted in Ventimiglia, Italy, before being transferred to Nice, France, through what was described as an "unlawful but almost luxurious and secretive service." Up to five migrants were transported each time, mostly of Tunisian, Egyptian, Bangladeshi, and Iraqi nationalities, and they were dropped off at train stations, bus stops, or highways.

An 18-month investigation revealed a "well-organized and structured network" consisting of individuals of foreign origins who managed to mobilize significant logistical and operational resources.

Security cooperation between the two countries led to the arrest of six French dual nationals in Nice and seven others in Italy, including Moroccans, Tunisians, three Sudanese, and an Afghan. All detainees were placed under judicial supervision, while one was remanded in pre-trial detention.

Phone call interceptions showed that the smuggling operations were highly profitable, with a fee of 250 euros for transporting a passenger in a sedan and 75 euros in a small truck.