A recent report from Morocco’s Ministry of Interior highlights said authorities dismantled 210 criminal networks and thwarted 48,963 smuggling attempts.
Presented to Parliament as part of the ministry’s budget discussions, the report outlines the success of the security strategy against human smuggling that led to the prevention of nearly 49,000 smuggling attempts and the disruption of over 200 active networks.
The Royal Moroccan Navyrescued 14,260 individuals from drowning while attempting to cross clandestinely to the northern shores of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic.
In protecting victims of smuggling, the ministry has adopted a rights-based approach, providing assistance and promoting voluntary returns for migrants, in collaboration with their diplomatic missions in Morocco, while ensuring their dignity is respected. So far, 4,388 migrants have returned home voluntarily, including 1,664 in partnership with the International Organization for Migration.
The report emphasizes an intensified commitment this year from security authorities to combat human smuggling and trafficking in line with existing laws.
Additionally, the Ministry of Interior is strengthening partnerships with regional and international entities, particularly European countries, to enhance border control and fight against smuggling. Efforts include upgrading surveillance and monitoring capabilities.
The ministry is also focusing on bilateral cooperation with European nations through active working groups, as well as enhancing collaboration with select African countries to combat smuggling and facilitate safe returns. The report notes ongoing coordination with the EU delegation in Morocco to address these challenges effectively.
Finally, the report underscores increased collaboration with UN agencies, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aimed at bolstering the skills of security personnel through targeted training programs related to migration issues.
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