In a significant development in the fight against migrant smuggling, a 49-year-old Egyptian national has been extradited from Albania to Italy. This action is part of Operation El Rais, a coordinated effort by the Siracusa State Police and the Central Operational Service, under the direction of the Siracusa District Anti-Mafia Directorate. The operation targets a sophisticated network accused of facilitating the illegal entry of migrants into Italy via the Eastern Mediterranean route.
The suspect, whose extradition was made possible through the collaboration between Italian and Albanian authorities, is believed to have played a key role in a criminal organization responsible for smuggling at least 3,000 individuals into Italy since 2021. The operation has highlighted the extensive reach of these networks, which operate across Egypt, Turkey, and Greece, generating an estimated $30 million in illicit profits.
This extradition marks a continuation of the efforts that began on April 8, when 15 Egyptian nationals were arrested under a precautionary custody order issued by the Catania court. The operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling migrant smuggling, with police forces from Germany, Turkey, and Oman also playing a role in the investigation.
Upon his arrival at Fiumicino Airport, the suspect was taken to Rome's Rebibbia prison, where he awaits trial. This case represents a critical step in Italy's ongoing efforts to dismantle the networks that exploit vulnerable migrants, showcasing the effectiveness of cross-border law enforcement collaboration.
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