2 arrested in Serbia suspected of smuggling Cubans to Spain as part of international crime group

Arrest came after months-long probe conducted in collaboration with Spain, Interpol, Europol

As part of an international crime group, Serbian police have arrested two people suspected of smuggling Cubans toward Spain.

In a statement, the police said the two Serbian citizens were arrested after a months-long investigation involving Spain, Interpol, and Europol. In Spain, 18 more suspects have been arrested.

According to the statement, at least 53 people were illegally transferred from Serbia to neighboring countries – North Macedonia or Bosnia – and then to Spain.

Located on the Balkan peninsula, Serbia is at the center of a major land route for migrants trying to reach the EU.

Earlier this year, Serbia revoked its visa-free travel agreement with Cuba following reports that Cuban tourists had moved on to Spain and other EU countries.

Under pressure from the EU, which is seeking to curb migration into the 27-nation bloc, Serbia also imposed visas earlier this year for Burundians, Tunisians, and Indians.