The Mossos d’Esquadra have dealt a significant blow to organised crime in Catalonia. Consequently, they have dismantled an international human trafficking network operating out of Barcelona and Paris. Officers from the Central Human Trafficking Unit arrested the suspected ringleader on 13 January. This operation ended a scheme that exploited vulnerable women under strict surveillance.
According to an official statement, the criminal enterprise was a family-run organisation. It was led by a woman, her partner, and her mother. Meanwhile, the police investigation is currently targeting eight further individuals connected to the network.
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Home » Human Trafficking Network Dismantled by Mossos in Barcelona
Cyber-surveillance and Coercion in the Human Trafficking Network
The investigation revealed a disturbing modus operandi involving high-tech control methods. One victim, who had worked as a receptionist in the clandestine brothels, testified that the women faced “fierce cyber-control”. This included the installation of closed-circuit video and audio surveillance systems inside the apartments. Therefore, the exploiters could monitor the victims constantly.
Victims were forced into prostitution against their will with demands for total availability. In addition, the Mossos reported that the women were coerced into selling drugs to clients. In some instances, they were forced to consume substances with them.
International Expansion of the Trafficking Network
The network recruited women with promises of improved economic conditions and safety. They enticed them to work in flats managed by acquaintances. However, once recruited, the reality was starkly different. Following the statement of the first identified victim, police located a second woman. She corroborated the reports.
Sensing police pressure, the suspect altered her operations. She closed the Barcelona apartments and forced victims to attend to clients in hotels or at their own homes. Subsequently, the investigation tracked the operation’s expansion to Paris. A new flat was opened in the 15th district. Authorities believe up to four victims were transferred from Barcelona to the French capital.
The reach of the network was extensive. Police found the suspect had approximately 70 active advertisements on websites offering sexual services across multiple countries, including:
- Spain
- Italy
- Luxembourg
- Germany
- Switzerland
- France
During raids on the Barcelona properties, officers seized 15 mobile phones. These were used to manage the business. Various other items are currently under forensic analysis.
The Serveis residencials d’atenció i recuperació in Barcelona provides support for victims of trafficking.
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