European Raids Bust Smugglers Giving Migrants Tire Tubes to Cross the Channel

An international law-enforcement operation coordinated by Europol, Eurojust and multiple national police agencies dismantled a migrant smuggling network that manufactured and sold hazardous "go kits" for Channel crossings. Authorities arrested key organizers, seized boats, weapons, cash and gold, and intercepted numerous shipments; the organization allegedly profited heavily by supplying tire inner tubes in place of life vests, endangering migrants. The arrested suspects face extradition to Belgium and the case falls under the new European Centre Against Migrant Smuggling.