NNA - Army Command Guidance Directorate issued the following communiqué: "On 9/21/2022, the Intelligence Directorate arrested the citizen (BD.) on suspicion of his involvement in smuggling illegal immigrants across the sea.

As a result of the investigation, he proved his involvement in running an active network in smuggling illegal immigrants by sea from the Lebanese coast extending from Arida in the north to Minieh in the south. He also admitted preparing for the recent smuggling operation from Lebanon to Italy by sea on 9/21/2022, which led to the sinking of the boat off the Syrian coast on 9/22/2020.

The investigation continues with the detainee under the supervision of the competent judiciary."

========= R.K