Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Spain Dismantles 38-Company Hydrocarbon VAT Fraud Network Exceeding €300 Million

The case has moved to the National Court under anti-corruption oversight.

Overview

  • In Operation Pamplinas Stars, more than 160 agents carried out 18 searches across 12 localities in seven provinces.
  • Five suspects were arrested, including a presumed leader now in prison, on alleged tax fraud, criminal organization and money laundering offenses.
  • Authorities seized properties, vehicles, boats, cash, hundreds of bank accounts, cryptoassets, artworks, luxury items and high-value metals, and blocked over €12.5 million along with more than 3.6 million liters of fuel.
  • Investigators say the 38-company structure failed to remit VAT on large wholesale hydrocarbon sales during 2024 after activity that began in late 2023.
  • Three wholesale operators were expelled from the market, and the probe continues under Investigative Court No. 4 of the Audiencia Nacional with anti-corruption coordination.