Spain to Extradite Moroccan Migrant Trafficking Suspect Arrested in Almeria

Born in Dakhla in 1978, the accused is accused of migrant trafficking via the Strait of Gibraltar. He would have carried out his activities mainly in 2017, the year during which he organized the departure of migrants from the province of Kenitra to the Andalusian coasts via the Strait of Gibraltar.

Wanted by Interpol after an international arrest warrant issued by the judicial authorities of Kenitra, the suspect was located by the national police in his hideout in Roquetas de Mar (Almeria). According to the Moroccan’s defense, he "legally resides in Spain, has a stable and known address in Roquetas de Mar, has always worked in Spain since he obtained his residence and work permit, has no criminal record in the country and has extensive professional experience".

Morocco is requesting the extradition of the accused to be tried for belonging to a criminal organization and incitement to illegal immigration in April and August 2017. According to the international arrest warrant, the Moroccan faces a sentence of 10 to 15 years in prison if the Moroccan justice system finds him guilty of recidivism. The criminal chamber of the Audiencia Nacional has authorized his extradition to Morocco where the Tetouan court is investigating the irregular immigration networks to which he would be linked.