Cracking down on criminal networks behind human smuggling one of Europol’s priorities

Cracking down on the criminal networks behind human trafficking remains a top priority for Europol, the organisation’s director Rob Wainwright said yesterday.

He was speaking at a joint press conference with Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela.

Mr Wainwright said he was in Malta to hear about its priorities for the upcoming EU presidency with regard to the sector.

He spoke about Europol’s role, saying that the agency supported thousands of police operations each year and was responsible for the relay of information among national police agencies.

He said counter terrorism is a top political priority. Europol also made it a top priority to step up the fight against criminal networks manipulating the flow of asylum seekers in a multi-billion dollar industry.

Mr Abela said Malta would use its EU presidency to build on the good work being carried out by the Slovaks.

Malta wants to strengthen police cooperation between member states. The minister said security is a complex and challenging issue and member states have to double their efforts for a safer Europe.

The minister said the EU needs to keep working on a strategy for safety for the benefit of all European citizens.

“While ensuring better external border control, we are also determined to endeavour to ensure an effective prevention of, and fight against, organised crime and terrorism.”

Mr Abela said the Maltese Presidency will address the pressing issue of migration. “But at the same time, our rotating Presidency will also be placing all matters relating to security and counter-terrorism high on the agenda.”