# Alicante dog breeding and mutilation network > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/alicante-dog-breeding-and-mutilation-network > Updated: 2026-08-19T01:00:39.000Z. Sources: 29. Developments: 2. Under ‘Operation Goscan’, the Guardia Civil dismantled a criminal network in Alicante involved in the illegal aesthetic mutilation of dogs, specifically through ear and tail amputations. The investigation began after a veterinary clinic in Cáceres identified a forged certificate claiming such procedures had been performed in Russia. Authorities arrested 14 individuals and are investigating six others for crimes including animal cruelty, professional intrusion, and document forgery. The network allegedly operated across Spain and maintained international connections, including the export of animals to Mexico. Evidence suggests the group provided buyers with forged veterinary documents and instructional videos for post-operative care. Among those arrested is a licensed veterinarian suspected of providing blank, pre-signed official documents to facilitate the trade. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-19: Spanish authorities dismantle multiple fraud and illegal manufacturing networks Spanish authorities have dismantled multiple criminal networks involving illegal veterinary medicine production, widespread rental scams, and sophisticated cyber-fraud targeting citizens across several regions. 19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catalan-authorities-seize-counterfeit-bags-and-football-shirts ### 2026-08-15: Alicante dog breeding network dismantled for illegal animal mutilation Spanish authorities have dismantled a network in Alicante that sold dogs with illegal ear and tail amputations, resulting in 14 arrests and the discovery of forged Russian veterinary documents. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guardia-civil-dismantles-illegal-dog-breeding-network-in-spain --- Cite as: Alicante dog breeding and mutilation network. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/alicante-dog-breeding-and-mutilation-network