Overview

• The Barcelona-based network ran from 2022 onward, luring victims with realistic fake websites, supposed investment advisors and remote-control apps to simulate profitable trades.
• Over the scheme’s three-year run, roughly 300 Spaniards were convinced to invest more than €10 million in fraudulent crypto and equity platforms.
• Operation Humo digital built on a 2024 multiagency inquiry to pinpoint call centers in Barcelona, leading to coordinated raids in Barcelona, Madrid, Mallorca and Alicante.
• Authorities seized seven high-end vehicles, over €1 million in cash, more than €300,000 in cryptocurrency wallets, a firearm, luxury watches and IT equipment for forensic analysis.
• With three principal ringleaders now in pretrial detention, investigators are combing seized materials to map the network’s remaining contacts and recover stolen funds.