An international operation coordinated by Europol has dismantled a migrant smuggling network that transported people to the United Kingdom via Hungary, authorities said on Thursday.
The National Bureau of Investigation reported that eight suspects were arrested in a coordinated action spanning France, Germany and Hungary. One of the arrests took place in Hungary, while the alleged ringleader remains at large.
The investigation targeted a Vietnamese criminal group operating across several European countries. According to authorities, the network advertised its services on social media, specifically targeting Vietnamese nationals seeking to reach the United Kingdom.
Migrants reportedly entered the Schengen Area using short-term visas or residence permits issued by Hungarian authorities. They then travelled by air to France, from where they attempted to cross to the UK in small inflatable boats.
The final stage of the journey was allegedly handled by a separate smuggling network of Kurdish-Iraqi origin operating in northern France.
Authorities said the organization managed the entire route, including accommodation, transport and logistical support. Financial transactions were conducted through what investigators described as an underground banking system linking Europe and Vietnam, enabling both operational funding and the transfer of illicit profits.
The network is believed to have transported at least 15 migrants per month, charging up to 22,000 euros per person. Based on these figures, investigators estimate the group may have generated revenues of up to 3 million euros in recent years.
Hungarian investigators identified two suspected members of the network believed to be residing in the country, including the alleged organizer and a close associate. French authorities issued international arrest warrants for both individuals and requested assistance in locating and apprehending them.
One suspect was detained on 24 March at Budapest’s international airport after arriving from Dubai. Officers from the airport police acted on the warrant and took the individual into custody. Searches were subsequently carried out at properties linked to the suspect.
A Hungarian court ordered the man’s extradition detention, and he was later handed over to French authorities on Wednesday.
The suspected ringleader has not yet been located and remains wanted under an international arrest warrant, authorities said.
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