Spanish Police investigate migrant fraud and criminal networks

Spanish National Police are conducting major investigations into two distinct criminal patterns involving irregular migration. In Granada, authorities have identified a trend where families from North Africa enter Spain on tourist visas and subsequently abandon their children. These minors, often from economically stable backgrounds and wearing brand-name clothing, present themselves to police stations claiming to be unaccompanied. The investigation suggests this is a coordinated effort to secure residency permits and state-funded maintenance for the purpose of future family reunification. So far, eight people have been arrested in Granada regarding these cases.

In Ceuta, a large-scale operation in the El Príncipe neighborhood led to the discovery of 74 irregular migrants—including 10 unaccompanied minors—living in overcrowded and precarious conditions within a single property. Police arrested the property owner, identifying him as a key figure in a criminal organization. The group is suspected of facilitating irregular immigration, labor exploitation, and physical abuse, with reports indicating some minors may have suffered injuries, including dog bites. The operation targeted the logistical infrastructure used to transport migrants from Ceuta to mainland Spain.