In a rigorous three-day security operation conducted from September 27th to 29th, Tunisian authorities successfully thwarted 52 illicit maritime border-crossing attempts in the governorate of Sfax, reflecting the nation’s unwavering commitment to preserving its territorial integrity.
The Tunisian Ministry of Interior divulged, through an official statement, that during the operations, a significant number of individuals were apprehended – 216 Tunisians, 667 from Sub-Saharan and Sahel African nations, and 73 of various other nationalities. Authorities retained 41 individuals for further proceedings and quashed an additional ten attempts to illegally cross maritime borders, arresting 26 individuals, which included 14 from Sub-Saharan and Sahel African countries. Furthermore, 48 persons implicated in organizing and mediating illicit crossing operations were arrested, with 32 of them being held in custody.
Highlighting the tangible results of the operation, the Ministry noted that financial seizures amounted to approximately 44,000 Tunisian dinars and 1,250 Euros. Moreover, 14 vehicles, 3 trucks, 20 life jackets, 57 mobile phones were seized, and two iron vessels were destroyed. In addition to these apprehensions, 22 individuals from Sub-Saharan African nations were retained for entering Tunisian territories through unauthorized crossing points.
The Ministry underscored that the relentless efforts of the national security and guard units were not solely targeted at maintaining border integrity but were also pivotal in safeguarding public security throughout the aforementioned security campaign. These endeavors resulted in the retention of 34 individuals involved in various criminal activities, including murder, drug trafficking, theft, and smuggling. Furthermore, four persons were held accountable for forming a gang of corrupt individuals and seizing archeological assets for trading purposes. The operations also resulted in the arrest of two individuals of African nationalities for drug and violent theft crimes, and 169 persons were sought after. The security forces confiscated nine cars, 66 motorcycles, approximately 10,000 Tunisian dinars in cash, various household appliances and mobile phones, and issued 66 records and 79 financial violations.
Tunisia, strategically positioned in North Africa, has historically faced challenges pertaining to illicit activities along its border, particularly maritime borders. These activities, which notably encompass unlawful immigration attempts, smuggling of goods, and occasionally, security threats, have continually nudged the nation to amplify its security apparatus. This intensive security campaign, thereby, illustrates Tunisia’s active endeavor to nullify illegal crossings and dismantle networks that facilitate such unlawful activities, safeguarding both national and regional security. With a spotlight on maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of its territories and citizens, Tunisia continues to be vigilant in its approach towards maintaining a stringent security posture amidst varying challenges.
