Role of organized crime in human smuggling from the sub Sahara to the Mediterranean region (Malta and Italy)

Abstract

Within the last two decades the world has witnessed an almost apocalyptic change especially in the sub-Saharan African continent. Changes that have caused an untold amount of hardship, poverty, insecurity as well as displacements. Resulting in a mass movement of people, especially young people in search of a better future. Young sub-Saharan migrants embark on an irregular migratory journey in search of their dreams. With destination Europe, those who have no means of getting into western countries legally, engage the service of organised criminal crime groups who operate illegal human smuggling operations from the Trans-Sahara through the cross Mediterranean transits routes, on a 'make or bust' mission to European cities. The relationship between the smugglers and their illegal migrant clients at different stages of the journey, is a contention for Law enforcement and the 'concerned'. The extents at which these criminal organisations influence these movements will always be shrouded in mystery and controversy.