People smuggling

European Police Say They Broke Up Migrant Smuggling Group

European police have dismantled a criminal ring that in less than a year had smuggled hundreds of migrants out of Hungary to Austria and Germany, law-enforcement officials said Monday.

The arrests show the sophistication of smuggling operations in Europe. With new restrictions on movement across borders and the political will to accept new immigrants faltering, it has become more difficult for migrants and refugees to reach their preferred destinations. The main migrant trail into Europe, from Greece through the Balkans, has been largely sealed through European Union efforts.

The suspected ringleader, a 44-year Syrian national, along with six other accomplices of Russian origin, were arrested late last week in Austria, Franz Ruf, head of the Salzburg police, said Monday at a news conference.