Each person in that raft paid anywhere between $1000 to $5000 usd for the seat. It is extremely profitable! Usually the 'coyotes' aren't even on the boats, they hire some deadbeats or simply instruct a couple of migrants how to run the things.

Most "ports of departure" have heavy restrictions on things like this, but $$$ makes it happen. So the $$$ gets spread out among other smugglers, corrupt cops & corrupt officials. Keeping the wheels greased, eh?