This footage was filmed and produced 13 March 2024.

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A group of 14 individuals has been apprehended following a series of 13 home searches conducted in the regions of Murcia, Almeria, and Jaen.

This group was found to be preying on families residing in Morocco and Algeria who were desperately searching for information about their missing loved ones. In a deceitful scheme, the group offered false details regarding the whereabouts of the missing persons in exchange for money.

Subsequently, they coerced the families into signing contracts and extorted payments for the repatriation process, in addition to handling complaints, facilitating DNA tests for body identification, and providing translation services.

The Civil Guard initiated an investigation aimed at unraveling these illicit practices involving the misidentification and repatriation of bodies of North African migrants who perished at sea. As a result, 14 individuals have been taken into custody, with one more being placed under investigation for their involvement in the criminal outfit dedicated to securing contracts for body repatriation.

During the raids carried out in the provinces of Murcia, Almeria, and Jaen, authorities seized close to 70,000 euros in cash, vehicles, and crucial documents linked to the case.

According to reports, this nefarious network has been profiting off the grief of families for an extended period, exploiting tragedies involving migrants who lost their lives while attempting to reach Spanish shores via makeshift boats.