Madrid — Spain’s National Police Corps have arrested five women accused of operating a criminal network that exploited vulnerable women through forced prostitution, including organizing “raffles” in which women were offered as prizes and using sex as payment for services in the Spanish capital.
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According to a statement from the Madrid Police Headquarters, the group allegedly ran a brothel in the Tetuán district, where victims were subjected to extreme working conditions and degrading treatment.
Forced to Work 24/7 Under Coercion
Investigators found that the women were forced to work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without rest. They were required to provide all types of sexual services, even when ill or menstruating. In some cases, they were allegedly forced to use sponges to continue working, and threats were made if they refused.
Authorities described the treatment as “extremely humiliating,” reducing victims to objects used as currency or prizes in promotional schemes.
Organized System of Exploitation
The investigation began on January 19 after police received information about a criminal organization dedicated to sexual exploitation. Officers discovered the brothel had been operating for over a decade and maintained a professional online presence, including its own website and advertisements on specialized platforms.
The operation was reportedly managed by a single individual who visited the premises daily to supervise activities and collect earnings. Several shift managers handled appointments, customer calls, payments, and even supplied alcohol and drugs upon request.
Sex, Drugs, and Coercion
Police say victims were often forced to consume drugs with clients, leading in some cases to substance dependency. In addition, they were allegedly required to transport illegal substances—including cocaine, “tucsi,” poppers, and ketamine—during off-site services requested by regular customers.
The network also used aggressive and degrading promotional tactics to attract clients. These included:
• Offering “girl of the day” discounts, reducing service prices by half
• Providing free sexual services as part of loyalty schemes
• Forcing women to participate in monthly raffles where winners received sexual services
• Accepting sex instead of money as payment for goods or repairs
• Offering discounts for birthdays or for bringing new clients
Police Raid and Victim Rescue
On March 19, officers carried out a raid on the property, seizing mobile phones, a computer, digital storage devices, €3,500 in cash, medication, and extensive financial records.
Authorities provided assistance to several victims and confirmed that multiple women were freed from the network. The brothel has since been shut down, and five bank accounts linked to the operation have been frozen.
Charges and Ongoing Proceedings
The five suspects have been charged with criminal organization, coercive prostitution, and money laundering. They have been placed at the disposal of judicial authorities as the investigation continues.
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Police emphasized the severity of the case, highlighting the systematic exploitation and abuse suffered by victims, and reaffirmed their commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals.
