Italian police arrest Moroccan wanted for leading irregular migration ring

Italian police in Viareggio, a town in northern Tuscany, arrested a 29-year-old Moroccan man on Saturday under an international warrant issued by Morocco for «aiding and abetting illegal immigration», authorities said Tuesday.

The suspect, who lives in Pisa, is accused of leading a clandestine migration network from Morocco together with his son, who remains in the country. Police said he could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

He was stopped late on August 31 on Viareggio’s Viale Europa after an argument with a compatriot near several nightlife venues. A database check revealed the outstanding warrant issued by Morocco’s Attorney General’s Office. The man was then transferred to Lucca prison, pending a ruling by the Florence Court of Appeal on his extradition.