BEIRUT, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Lebanese army announced on Wednesday it has busted a human smuggling ring comprised of 15 Lebanese and 31 Syrians in the northern towns of Benin, Deir Ammar, Selaata, and al-Minya.
The suspects were planning the illegal trafficking of individuals by sea to Europe, the army said in a statement, adding they had been referred to the judicial authorities for investigation and other legal procedures.
Lebanon has been trying to stop increasing illegal immigration attempts, as the country's dire economic situation has forced many residents to flee the country through illegal channels. ■
