Spanish Police Dismantle International Network Smuggling Minors to France

On Thursday, Spanish police revealed that they have dismantled an international network engaged in the smuggling of minors from the Canary Islands to France. This significant operation involved multiple regions including Lanzarote, Madrid, and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, leading to the arrest of 11 suspects.

Authorities reported that four of the arrested individuals have been placed in custody on charges related to organized crime, document forgery, and the exploitation of children in pornography.

The investigation was initiated following the disappearance of 14 minors from state facilities in the Canary Islands between late 2024 and mid-2025. Police confirmed that the network utilized connections and routes in Morocco, Ivory Coast, and Spain to transport the children and provided them with forged documents for their illegal transfer to France.

The operation included searches of two residences in Lanzarote, where officials confiscated personal documents, electronic devices, and cash. Investigators continue their efforts to locate the missing minors and uncover the international links of the organization.

A criminal law expert described the operation as "a significant blow against cross-border crime," emphasizing that its success underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating child trafficking and protecting minors.