The criminal investigations are taking place in nine counties and 44 people and 26 employers are under investigation, said SEF, in writing, in response to questions from Lusa agency, specifying that 17 crimes of aid to illegal immigration and 12 of trafficking are involved.

The district of Odemira, in the district of Beja, is the one with the most ongoing investigations, in a total of 10, eight for the crime of aiding illegal immigration and two for human trafficking.

The remaining 19 inquiries are take place in the counties of Évora (five), Beja (four), Serpa (three), Grândola and Portalegre, with two each, and Elvas, Ferreira do Alentejo and Ourique, with one each.