The National Police have arrested 60 people as part of a significant operation to dismantle an alleged document forgery network based in Orihuela. The individuals involved are suspected of altering international protection application forms, enabling undocumented migrants to register with the Social Security system and gain employment under false pretences.
The investigation was launched in late 2025 after the Orihuela Local Immigration and Borders Brigade was alerted to the use of falsified documents by Colombian nationals. Initial enquiries centred on agri-food businesses across the Vega Baja region and the province of Murcia.
According to the National Police, the ring manipulated authentic receipts issued for international protection applications. Often, the application dates were changed to create the impression that the holder had met the necessary requirements for a work permit. In other instances, photographs were swapped, allowing individuals to assume the identities of compatriots who had already returned to their home countries.
The first phase of the crackdown resulted in 12 arrests of foreign workers. Officers also took action against the administrator of the company that had employed them, as there was evidence to suggest he was aware of the irregular documentation.
The investigation led authorities to a call centre in the heart of Orihuela, a hub frequently visited by South American citizens. Investigators believe this premises was used to routinely manipulate original documents submitted by clients. Following a thorough inspection, the business manager and one employee were taken into custody.
The operation subsequently widened to include other companies within the sector. At one such firm, four employees were arrested for alleged crimes of document forgery and identity theft. The company’s sole administrator was also detained, with police alleging he had falsified the documents required to hire the staff.
Officers also identified another business that may have been a victim of the fraud, after several of its employees presented allegedly falsified documents. Thanks to the cooperation of local businesses, officers were able to identify further individuals involved, bringing the total number of arrests to 60.
The National Police have confirmed that the operation is ongoing and have not ruled out further arrests as investigations continue.
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