The so-called Operation Aragua has led to the dismantling of an organization that allegedly recruited vulnerable women, both in their countries of origin and within Spain, to force them into prostitution in apartments located mainly in Jerez and Málaga.

The victims incurred a debt of up to 5,000 euros for their transportation and had to hand over 50% of the profits earned from sexual services. The investigation resulted in simultaneous raids on May 20th in Estepona and two properties in Jerez de la Frontera.

During one of the searches, a 21-month-old minor was found in unsanitary conditions with cocaine accessible. The child was transferred to a healthcare center, where they remain hospitalized after testing positive for cocaine and showing symptoms of withdrawal.

In the Jerez apartments, eight potential victims were identified. They shared rooms and even beds, sometimes having to interrupt their rest to attend to clients. They were forced into prostitution 24 hours a day, encouraged to consume narcotics, and were constantly monitored via security cameras.

The two detainees were brought before the judicial authorities on May 22nd and were ordered to be remanded in custody.