Network Arrested in Gran Canaria for Exploitation of Minors in Care

Gran Canaria has been the scene of a recent operation by the Civil Guard, which has led to the arrest of a criminal network dedicated to the recruitment of unaccompanied foreign minors from care centres. The organisation facilitated the escape of these minors, intending to transport them to the mainland and France, where they are suspected of being subjected to sexual exploitation.

Details of the Operation

The investigation began when the case of a minor in care was reported, who, after leaving a protection centre, returned to Spain from France. This minor recounted having been recruited with the promise of a job. From this account, investigators identified other similar cases, where minors left the centres without personal documentation and were linked to flights heading to various points on the mainland.

Operational Pattern of the Organisation

Investigators have documented a common operational pattern, exploiting the vulnerability of these minors. Many of them lack family ties in Spain and face language barriers. Under a false guise of assistance, the organisation offered them a way out of the centres, providing them with fake identity documents and organising their travel.

The network displayed a structure with differentiated roles within the group. Some members contacted the minors from the protection centres, others managed the documentation and ticket purchases, while others accompanied the victims to the airport.

A crucial element of the investigation was identifying the movements of minors from Gran Canaria airport using forged identities. In some cases, network members ensured that the minors passed through security checks, evidencing an organised operation over time.

Thanks to the operation, the Civil Guard freed two victims and prevented four more minors from escaping using the same method previously employed. This operation took place on July 29th by the Organised Crime Team (ECO) and the Judicial Police Unit of Las Palmas.

Five searches were conducted at different locations in Gran Canaria, resulting in the arrest of five individuals, including a minor. The searches allowed for the seizure of relevant documentation, mobile phones, electronic devices, and cash linked to the illegal activities of the network.

The investigation continues under the direction of the Instruction Section of the Court of First Instance of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and further actions are not ruled out.

For more information, you can contact the press office of the Central Operational Unit at phone number 91 503 13 27.