Gipuzkoa has been the scene of a joint operation by the Civil Guard, Ertzaintza, and Mossos d’Esquadra, resulting in the arrest of a 17-year-old minor. This young person has been identified as the main figure in Spain for the extremist network 764, an organization dedicated to the recruitment and exploitation of minors via the internet.
The 764 network, which originated in the United States, has been the subject of investigations in various countries due to its involvement in serious crimes. These include sextortion, organised harassment, and the distribution of content related to child sexual exploitation. During the period from January to April 2026, the arrested individual is attributed with numerous threats directed at educational institutions and public bodies, as well as private individuals.
Threats and manipulation tactics
Investigations have revealed that the minor sent specific threats that included mentions of shootings and armed attacks, which were never carried out. However, these threats caused considerable public alarm and led to the deployment of extraordinary security measures. In his messages, the arrested individual referred to the 764 organization and promised to livestream violent actions to other members of his group.
It has been confirmed that the minor used tactics of swatting, doxing, and identity theft, common channels in extremist internet communities, with the aim of generating police interventions and diverting the attention of the authorities. As a result, two individuals fell victim to harassment campaigns related to this investigation.
Investigation and prevention
The identification and capture of the minor was the result of months of joint work between the investigative teams of the Civil Guard and regional police forces. Searches were conducted at two properties in Gipuzkoa, where electronic devices and relevant documentation for the investigation were seized.
The 764 network is characterised by actively seeking vulnerable minors on platforms such as social media and messaging apps. Parents and educators are advised to be cautious and maintain active surveillance over teenagers' internet activity. It is crucial that any suspicious activity is reported immediately to prevent recruitment by these criminal organizations.
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