Illegal Botox operation uncovered across Spain in major police crackdown

Nine people have been arrested and more than 10,000 doses of illegal botulinum toxin seized following a series of operations targeting clandestine cosmetic clinics across Spain, in an investigation that authorities say exposed serious risks to public health. The Guardia Civil carried out seven coordinated operations in Bizkaia, Barcelona, Las Palmas and Asturias, dismantling an alleged network involved in the distribution and use of aesthetic medicine products outside authorised medical settings.  Two additional individuals are under investigation.

The investigation began in March 2025 after officers detected suspicious packages at Foronda Airport in Vitoria-Gasteiz.  The shipments, many originating from South Korea and Vietnam, contained medical products that had entered Spain without the required health authorisations. Among the seized items were botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox, hyaluronic acid fillers and other pharmaceutical products, including medication intended for diabetes treatment. Investigators said some of the diabetes drugs were allegedly being used improperly for weight-loss purposes.

Products allegedly imported without medical authorisation

Authorities said the products were brought into Spain without complying with regulations governing the import of medicines, and without meeting the strict storage and transport requirements for injectable aesthetic treatments. Particular concern was raised over the failure to maintain the cold chain needed for products such as botulinum toxin. Officials warned that improper storage can alter the stability and effectiveness of medical products, increasing risks for patients.

The Guardia Civil stated that both unqualified individuals and, in some cases, licensed professionals were allegedly involved in administering treatments using unauthorised products. Procedures were reportedly carried out in hair salons, beauty centres operating without medical licences and private homes. Those arrested are being investigated for alleged offences against public health, as well as possible breaches related to professional practice and operating outside regulated medical frameworks.

Raids carried out across four provinces

The arrests were made across multiple regions. Four people were detained in Bizkaia, two in Barcelona, two in Las Palmas and one in Asturias. Two further individuals remain under investigation. Searches were carried out in several towns linked to the alleged network, including locations in:

Bilbao, Basauri, Galdakao and Barakaldo  in Bizkaia; L’Hospitalet de Llobregat and Cornellà de Llobregat in Barcelona; Avilés in Asturias; and Carrizal and Vecindario in Las Palmas.

During the operation, officers seized approximately 10,000 doses of botulinum toxin and more than 200 vials of hyaluronic acid. Authorities also recovered over €115,000 believed to be linked to profits from the illegal activity.

Health risks linked to unregulated cosmetic procedures

Health officials have repeatedly warned about the dangers of cosmetic treatments carried out outside authorised medical environments. They say patients receiving injectable treatments from unqualified practitioners may face serious complications, including infections, allergic reactions, facial paralysis and long-term tissue damage. Risks increase further when products are untraceable or stored incorrectly.

Authorities have also highlighted the growing demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, which has contributed to an increase in unlicensed operators advertising treatments through social media and informal channels. Patients are often unaware that products may be unauthorised or unsafe.

How to choose a registered cosmetic clinic in Spain

Health authorities advise patients to ensure that any clinic offering injectable cosmetic treatments is properly registered with regional health services and operates as an authorised medical facility. Treatments should only be carried out by qualified healthcare professionals with recognised medical credentials. Patients are advised to check professional registration details  and ask where and how products are sourced.

A legitimate clinic should be able to provide clear documentation, maintain proper medical records and carry out procedures in a clinical environment rather than private homes or non-medical premises. Experts also advise avoiding practitioners who offer unusually low prices, refuse to provide documentation or rely solely on social media messaging to arrange treatments.

Summary

The Guardia Civil operation uncovered an alleged network involved in importing and distributing unauthorised aesthetic medical products across several regions of Spain. The investigation resulted in nine arrests, the seizure of around 10,000 doses of botulinum toxin, more than 200 vials of hyaluronic acid and over €115,000 in suspected proceeds. Authorities say the case highlights the risks associated with unregulated cosmetic procedures and the importance of seeking treatment only through authorised medical clinics.