Spanish Police Free 25 Women Trafficked to Ibiza

The Spanish Civil Guard has rescued 25 women who were lured to Ibiza with false job offers and subsequently forced into prostitution and money laundering by a criminal gang. Four arrests were made in connection with the operation, which has dismantled a trafficking organization on the island.

The operation, codenamed 'Gecaroni,' concluded on October 5th. The victims, primarily women from Venezuela aged between 18 and 25, were recruited with promises of employment in the hospitality or beauty industries. According to the Civil Guard, these women came from particularly vulnerable backgrounds.

Upon arrival in Spain, the gang confiscated the victims' money and belongings. They were then informed they owed approximately €5,000 (about $4,236) to the organization, which they were compelled to repay through sexual services. Investigators stated the women were subjected to strict control and were kept on standby for clients.

The gang reportedly exploited the women's irregular immigration status to create fear and prevent them from seeking help. During four raids across Ibiza, police discovered surveillance and video monitoring systems used to track the victims. They also seized nearly €120,000 (about $102,000) in cash, believed to be proceeds from sexual exploitation and drug trafficking, along with electronic devices and surveillance equipment.

The criminal syndicate communicated with clients via messaging apps. The women were stationed in the Platja d'en Bossa entertainment district and taken to clients' homes. The investigation also revealed the gang profited from selling customers illicit substances and what are described as 'sexual enhancers.'

This illicit income allegedly funded a lavish lifestyle for some gang members, enabling them to rent luxury homes and vehicles. Police are also investigating a network and potential use of companies linked to the gang's leader for money laundering activities.