Summary:

Throughout July and August 2023, reports of piracy by Tunisians targeting irregular migrants have been on the rise creating additional risk in the already complex and highly dynamic world of irregular migration.

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In both Tunisia and Italy, multiple groups of Tunisian men have been arrested after allegedly preying upon or attacking boats carrying irregular migrants on the Mediterranean Sea.

In some cases, piracy has involved robbery, including the stealing of money, food, and engines, which can leave a migrant boat stranded at sea. Other situations involved extortion, with the perpetrators demanding money in exchange for assistance.

Meanwhile, in late August, Tunisian authorities arrested an individual of sub-Saharan African descent in the Enassr area of Tunis on charges of money laundering. The individual had collected over 70 money orders totaling over 130,000 Tunisian dinars which was linked to migrant smuggling operations.

Outlook:  

As irregular migration continues at high rates, black and gray markets will inevitably emerge and evolve as individuals seek to prosper off the inherently risky venture that places migrants in highly vulnerable positions.

The emergence of the markets surrounding irregular migration create significant instability in Tunisia as was seen in early July when frustration turned into violence that led to the death of a Tunisian man and the arrest of a number of sub-Saharan African individuals.

While Tunisia continues to serve as a critical link in the journey to Europe for many irregular migrants, the security environment will remain unstable as various actors seek to profit and perpetuate profitability.

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