Trafficking gang bust

MADRID: The EU’s law enforcement agency said yesterday that police had smashed a Nigerian crime ring in one of the largest European operations against human trafficking.

Europol said the gang trafficked victims to Europe through Libya and Italy, forcing women into prostitution to pay for their journey.

Spain’s Guardia Civil searched 41 houses in 11 cities, while Britain’s National Crime Agency mounted raids in Manchester. Europol said the ring was active in various EU countries and 89 people had been arrested and 39 victims rescued. – AP