Child exploitation network dismantled in Madrid: a man posed as a woman to attract minors

A police operation revealing a disturbing modus operandi

The National Police has carried out a significant operation in Madrid, resulting in the arrest of a 42-year-old man, accused of being a repeat sexual offender. This individual, who resided in the Salamanca district and had no known employment, was arrested following an investigation that began on March 11. The operation, dubbed "Viento", has uncovered a sophisticated scheme to target vulnerable minors.

The investigation was initiated when two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, residing in a care centre in Segovia, reported being contacted via Instagram by a profile posing as a woman named "Sandra". This alleged recruiter offered them an attractive job proposal: to perform naked video calls with older men in exchange for a monthly salary of 2,800 euros. However, the offer was merely a facade to lure the young women into dangerous situations.

As the investigation progressed, agents discovered that the arrested individual used social media to select his victims, initially unaware that some were under guardianship. The offer quickly spread among acquaintances of the initial complainants, leading investigators to consider the possibility of more victims.

The suspect's modus operandi included requesting sexual photographs and videos under the pretext of conducting a selection. He then sent links via Telegram to continue his deception. Although many minors rejected his proposals for physical meetings, a young woman from Madrid agreed to meet him. The encounter took place at a nearby petrol station to Metro Cuatro Vientos and culminated in the parking lot of the Islazul shopping centre, where he allegedly committed the sexual assault.

Thanks to the brave testimony of this victim, agents were able to quickly identify the suspect. He had previously been arrested in 2021 for similar offenses but had been released judicially. The recurrence of his behaviour has led investigators to fear that there may be more victims.

Five days after the initial police alert, on March 16, a device was established around the suspect's home. He was arrested while at a bar before presumably heading to another meeting with another minor. He is currently in provisional custody while investigations continue and the mobile phones seized during his arrest are analysed; agents hope to find more evidence of his criminal activity.