A broad, multi-agency operation targeted illicit sneaker networks operating across Spain. Madrid’s Municipal Police, supported by the Tax Office Customs Surveillance and reinforced by national investigators, coordinated seizures that shut down nine business premises and warehouses tied to counterfeit footwear. In total, authorities seized 95,000 pairs and detained seven people. Suspects face charges related to industrial property infringement and smuggling, according to a memo from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The operation, code-named Victoria, began in mid-2023 after investigators tracked rising activity from a group identified as having Asian origins. The focus was on violations of intellectual property rights tied to branded sneakers. Key sites included the Cobo Calleja industrial zone in Fuenlabrada, Madrid; a warehouse in Yuncler, Toledo; and the Carrús industrial area in Elche. The case was overseen by officers from Group V of the Benidorm Police Station Judicial Police as the investigation expanded across regions.
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On December 21, monitoring devices were placed at the targeted facilities to supervise warehouses in Madrid, Toledo, and Elche. Inspections involved representatives from multiple sneaker brands and industry experts who quickly confirmed counterfeit activity. Early documents indicated fake products were being prepared for distribution. Law enforcement teams acted swiftly to seize the goods and halt further circulation.
Inside one warehouse, investigators captured images showing sealed boxes of counterfeit sneakers, providing clear evidence of illegal trade and brand infringement. These visuals illustrate the scale of the operation and the careful steps taken to preserve evidence for court proceedings.
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The coordinated operation culminated in the inspection of nine commercial facilities and warehouses across the Alicante, Toledo, and Madrid provinces. Seven people were arrested in connection with the sites, while investigators recovered cash totaling 10,085 euros and a large stock of counterfeit footwear. The seizure totaled 95,814 pairs distributed as follows: 16,044 in Madrid, 53,364 in Toledo, and 26,406 in Elche. The estimated value of the seized items exceeded two million euros, highlighting the financial footprint of the counterfeit market and its potential impact on legitimate businesses and consumer safety in the region. Citation: Ministry of Internal Affairs memo.
Ongoing efforts continue in Elche as investigators pursue additional leads and implement further checks to curb illicit trade in branded footwear. The case underscores the ongoing commitment by regional and national authorities to protect intellectual property, deter criminal networks, and safeguard consumers from counterfeit products that harm legitimate commerce and public safety.