The Civil Guard has carried out Operation Bonifaz, which has resulted in the liberation of 22 foreign women forced into prostitution in different provinces of Spain, including Málaga.
Recruitment and modus operandi
The victims were recruited in Latin America under the promise of employment as caregivers for the elderly in Spain. The organization covered the costs of travel and accommodation, but upon arrival in Spain, they confiscated their passports and imposed a debt of approximately 10,000 euros.
The women were subjected to coercion and intimidation, with threats of violence against their family members in case of resistance. This forced the victims to work in brothels run by the organization itself, in a context of continuous exploitation.
Operation development and results
The investigation lasted nine months and culminated in two operational phases. In the first phase, searches were conducted in Sevilla, Gelves, and Jerez de la Frontera, where 11 people were arrested and 15 women in situations of sexual exploitation were identified.
The second phase included searches in locations such as Mijas, Vigo, Peñíscola, and Alzira. In this phase, eight more people were arrested and seven additional women were identified. In total, several electronic devices and a significant amount of cash were seized.
The operation has concluded with the arrest of 19 individuals, who have been placed at the disposal of the judiciary for crimes of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and membership in a criminal organization.
The investigation remains open, and further police actions related to it are not ruled out.
This operation is part of the Action Plan against Human Trafficking of the General Directorate of the Civil Guard.
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