Italian authorities have dismantled a major migrant smuggling network, arresting 13 individuals of Pakistani, Iraqi, and Afghan origin.

This criminal organization facilitated illegal entry into Italy, providing services such as food, lodging, and transportation for migrants, who were charged up to €10,000 for their journey.

The network operated through a complex system of cells across the Middle East, the Balkans, and Italy, using the hawala system for financial transactions.

The investigation, led by the Catanzaro prosecutor's office, revealed the group's role in moving migrants from the Italian coast to the French border.

The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has vowed to continue its efforts to dismantle such networks and enforce legal immigration procedures.