Alicante is once again the target of an investigation against the illegal market, this time in the cosmetics industry. The Guardia Civil has busted a Botox and hyaluronic acid trafficking network based in the province, as well as a clandestine medical warehouse and one of the illegal clinics.
The operation, known as Zlata, resulted in the seizure of a considerable amount of medical goods, including more than 1,200 vials of botulinum toxin, over 400 syringes of hyaluronic acid, and thousands of needles and related products. One individual has been arrested, while three more are being investigated for offences against public health and practising medicine without a licence.
The plot originated in Alicante
The inquiry, which began in August 2025, revealed that the organisation’s main leaders were situated in the province of Alicante. From there, they unlawfully obtained significant quantities of pharmaceuticals and cosmetic products, which they then distributed nationally and abroad.
Some of the material wound up at clandestine clinics around Spain, while others were shipped to countries such as Lithuania and the United Kingdom, expanding the network’s reach beyond its borders.
Illegal clinics in private residences
Officers conducted raids on April 8th and 9th, dismantling three illegal cosmetic surgery facilities in homes in Reus (Tarragona), Burjassot (Valencia), and Pilar de la Horadada. In the latter town in the Vega Baja region, a concealed storage facility was uncovered in another property.
In certain areas, intrusive treatments were provided without any form of health authorisation or medical control, which is extremely risky because the drugs involved require professional monitoring.
Treatments without training or health supervision
The network drew customers in through social media and digital platforms, providing cosmetic operations at lower-than-average pricing. However, the individuals administering these therapies lacked the essential qualifications.
According to authorities, using medications like Botox or hyaluronic acid outside of legal channels and without health guarantees might result in infections, significant reactions, or even long-term effects.
A thriving business with growing risks
This form of activity is emerging as a new outlet of the illegal market, with increasing economic volume and a direct impact on public health.
The operation was carried out in partnership with the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), which has increased regulations on such activities to prevent them from spreading further.
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