Spanish authorities dismantle organic olive oil fraud network

The Spanish Civil Guard has dismantled a criminal organization involved in a large-scale organic olive oil fraud operation, known as Operation Oretania. Twelve individuals were arrested across the provinces of Jaén, Málaga, Córdoba, and Madrid.

Investigators allege the network marketed inferior quality oil as organic extra virgin olive oil. The scheme involved falsifying documents, invoices, and transport contracts to misrepresent the product. To bypass regulations, the group allegedly pretended to sell the oil to two Portuguese companies under their control, while the product actually remained stored in Spain. Once processed through shell companies, the oil was falsely presented as an organic import.

The fraud is estimated to involve more than seven million kilograms of oil over a three-year period, with illicit profits exceeding four million euros. During 14 searches, including three at olive oil factories, authorities seized 34 containers holding over one million kilograms of oil due to traceability and food safety concerns. The suspects face investigation for food fraud, document falsification, money laundering, and membership in a criminal organization.