A secret workshop operation in Guardamar del Segura, codenamed Mashina23, was revealed by Civil Guard sources on Sunday. The investigation centers on two Belarussian nationals and alleges violations of workers’ rights, including long hours and work permits that were not in order as three workers were found to be in an irregular situation.
Earlier information in November indicated a possible hidden vehicle workshop in Vega Baja. Authorities suspected several individuals might be employed under irregular conditions. In response, the Investigation Area of the Guardamar del Segura Main Station launched operation Mashina23 to scrutinize the activity and location of the workshop.
On November 29, agents located the workshop on a shipyard in Guardamar rented to a 42-year-old Belarusian man who owned a vehicle trading company in the Vega Baja area. Documents linked to him showed possible forgery, and he was present during the operation. His partner, a 48-year-old Belarusian, was also at the scene.
Inside the workshop, investigators found vehicles in various stages of repair and seized 161 license plates from Spain and other European countries for examination. Three workers, all Belarusian, were discovered to be in an irregular situation. Reports indicate they lived and worked in the workshop in return for basic needs such as food and clothing, highlighting a pattern of exploitation.
Following a thorough review of the gathered evidence, on December 5 the two men were subjected to formal inquiries under allegations related to workers’ rights violations. The No. 4 Torrevieja Judicial Instruction Court initiated the case, while additional administrative concerns were raised over the possession and use of fluorinated gases used to recharge air conditioning systems in the vehicles. The case was turned over to the Ministry of Environment, Water, Infrastructure and Territory, and to the Customs and Excise Department in Alicante for further action.
During the operation, the Civil Guard was supported by the Guardamar Nature Protection Patrol (PAPRONA), the Torrevieja Regional Fiscal Patrol (PAFITE), and the Guardamar Local Police. Authorities emphasized the commitment to eradicating labor exploitation, noting that those responsible often take advantage of vulnerable individuals, frequently foreigners who lack legal status in the country. This coordinated effort illustrates the ongoing stance of the Civil Guard against abuse in the workplace, with a clear warning to anyone who exploits workers by trapping them in precarious conditions for gain. (Source: Civil Guard communications)