Major Crackdown on ‘Spiritual’ Sect Across Spain and Europe

A significant operation by the National Police and Customs Surveillance of the Tax Agency has dismantled a large criminal organization engaged in neoshamanic rituals involving illicit psychoactive substances across Europe. The network, based in various Spanish locations including Madrid, Malaga, Ibiza, and Lloret de Mar, has seen 18 individuals arrested on charges including involvement in a criminal organization and public health violations.

Operation Details:
The arrests, which took place in early January 2024, also included charges of human trafficking, unauthorised medical practice, labor rights violations, smuggling, and breaching immigration laws. The operation exposed the global network of the group, which operated ‘epicentres of inner evolution’ in Spain and countries like France, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, Finland, Romania, Malta, Mexico, Colombia, and Turkey.

Rituals and Recruitment:
The organization organized retreats named ‘inner evolution,’ charging attendees for access to prohibited substances like ayahuasca, toad bufo, rana kambo, and peyote. These events were falsely authorized by a registered doctor and his accomplice posing as a medical graduate. The group’s leader, considered a spiritual guru by followers, faced charges including sexual crimes and facilitating illegal immigration before his death during the investigation.

Seizures and Substance Abuse:
Authorities seized €24,000, various foreign currencies, 1 kilogram of mescaline, over 60 kilograms of ayahuasca, other psychoactive substances, and consumption instruments during the raids. Additionally, tech equipment, mobile phones, drones, and a luxury vehicle were confiscated.

Impact and Significance:
This operation highlights the exploitation of spiritual practices for criminal gain, particularly in the context of ‘new age sects.’ The use of psychoactive substances in these ceremonies manipulates attendees into adopting specific social and individual behaviors. The crackdown signifies a major effort to halt such exploitative practices that pose significant health and legal risks.