Three men arrested in Fuerteventura for facilitating illegal immigration and endangering lives

The National Police arrested three individuals in Puerto del Rosario, accusing them of committing a crime against the rights of foreign citizens by facilitating illegal immigration under conditions that posed a serious risk to life.

The investigation began on 5 April after the Maritime Rescue Service recovered a drifting inflatable boat carrying several people in waters near Fuerteventura.

According to the inquiry, the vessel had set sail the previous day from the African continent with a total of 43 migrants, undertaking a night crossing in high‑risk conditions to reach Spanish territory.

Police determined that the three detainees were part of an organized structure, each performing a distinct role: one piloted the boat, another handled navigation using geolocation devices and monitored the occupants, and a third was responsible for fuel and refueling.

The craft used—a Zodiac about seven metres long—lacked basic safety equipment such as lighting systems, communication devices, or life jackets, and was overloaded, creating a severe overcrowding situation.

During the voyage, which took place in total darkness, without water or food supplies and under adverse weather, the passengers suffered episodes of hypothermia and dehydration. The boat also began taking on water, forcing the occupants to bail out for several hours to prevent sinking.

The police operation, based on witness statements and audiovisual evidence, culminated in the arrest of the three suspects on 9 April in Puerto del Rosario.

The detainees have been placed at the disposal of the courts and ordered into pre‑trial detention without bail.