The national police in Alicante have detained two foreigners of Colombian citizenship, a man and a woman, amid charges of involvement in a fraud scheme that targeted dozens of migrants in Spain. Investigators say the suspects charged victims approximately 2,500 euros each for forged documents intended to facilitate their stay in the country. Early estimates suggest as many as 40 immigrants could be connected to the case, with a broader scope under review by authorities.
An inquiry began after contact with the Alicante National Police, Room 091, which noted heavy call activity and a public altercation on a cafe terrace. A Citizens Security patrol was dispatched to assess the scene and ensure public safety, given the rising tension surrounding the incident.
During interviews at the bar, officers spoke with several individuals who reported being deceived by the two suspects. They described a scheme in which the pair demanded 2,500 euros per person to complete administrative steps claimed to normalize residency status in Spain.
The investigation was led by Group 1 of the Alicante Counter Immigration and Document Fraud Networks (UCRIF) Unit. Authorities conducted a series of operations to clarify the alleged fraud and collected statements from victims who confirmed paying an initial amount of between 500 and 700 euros before traveling to Spain to begin the supposed legalization process.
Transfer to Spain
Those who paid received counterfeit receipts, which misled them into thinking the process had commenced. Once the victims arrived in Spain, the fraudsters pressed for a second payment, this time around 2,000 euros, promising the documents needed to present at a ceremony and appointment for residency procedures. The Alicante Provincial Police Station began the process of obtaining a residence card for these applicants.
After making the second payment, the victims received documents containing third-party details allegedly belonging to the suspects and were instructed to report to the Provincial Security Directorate for delivery. On arrival at police stations, officers immediately recognized the fraud and confirmed that no official appointment had been requested by the victims.
Authorities arrested a 47-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman and seized several documents used to carry out the deception, including 10,670 euros in cash and a collection of notes bearing the names of nearly 40 individuals being investigated as potential victims. The investigation remains active, with possible additional detainees or victims still under review.
Officials emphasize that ongoing inquiries may reveal a larger network beyond the two detainees, and authorities are continuing to identify affected individuals and pursue appropriate legal action. This case underscores the importance of vigilance among migrants and the public in recognizing fraudulent schemes that exploit residency processes and official procedures.
Law enforcement agencies remind residents and visitors to rely on official channels for immigration documentation and to verify any requests for payment or personal information before transferring funds. Inquiries and tips can be directed to local police desks or the national immigration offices, where trained officers provide guidance on legitimate procedures and next steps for applicants.
As the UCRIF unit extends its inquiry, authorities expect to provide further updates as more information becomes available. The investigation highlights the need for robust safeguards in administrative processes and the continued collaboration between police teams and community members to prevent fraud and protect vulnerable individuals from these exploitative practices. (Source attribution: Policía Nacional Alicante, UCRIF)