In the framework of months-long operation "Patra" in breaking an international migrant smuggling ring, the Ministry of Interior arrested Sunday eight members of the criminal group which smuggled migrants coming from the Middle and Far East, as well as African countries.

Criminal charges have been brought against eight individuals from Kumanovo between the ages of 22 and 40, who have been detained.

Minister of Interior Gordana Jankuloska said at Monday's press conference the criminal group smuggled migrants from Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Arab countries, who were illegally transferred to the Western European states through Greece, Macedonia and Serbia.

The group organizers in Macedonia charged EUR 1,500-2,500 per migrant for the illegal transfer, with about EUR 150,000 obtained in just several months.

"The migrants were overtaken in the Bitola area, transported to Kumanovo and afterwards transferred at Serbian territory through illegal crossings", said Jankuloska.

According to her, the ring was used for the smuggling of about 80 Afghan, Pakistani and other Arab migrants.

"The problem that Western European countries are faced with - huge migrant waves from North Africa and the East - is a problem they cannot solve by themselves. Cooperation is required with non-EU member-countries, such as the Republic of Macedonia, who participate in EU's single migration policy", underlined Minister Jankuloska.