Fake document laboratory dismantled in Alicante with 795 items seized
The National Police arrested the alleged person responsible and seized 795 forged documents ready for distribution across Europe. The operation had support from Europol and French police.
Joint operation dismantles document forgery network in Alicante
The National Police dismantled a laboratory in Alicante allegedly dedicated to the production and distribution of false identity and travel documents to various European countries, according to informacion.es. The operation, developed in collaboration with the French Police's Office for Combating Illegal Immigration (OLTIM) and with support from Europol, concluded with the arrest of the man considered the main person responsible for the activity.
Seized material and scope of the network
Officers seized 795 forged documents ready for personalisation and distribution, including identity cards from several European countries, Schengen visa labels and other documentation prepared for postal dispatch. The intervention also included computer and photographic equipment used in the forgery, 1,500 euros in cash, a high-end vehicle and four mobile phones. The authorities also requested the blocking of three bank accounts.
The documents were commercialised through a specialised website. The offer included national identity documents from several European countries, including the Spanish DNI, at prices reaching up to 400 euros per unit.
Investigation launched after French alert
The investigation began in September 2025 following an alert communicated by the French authorities through international police cooperation channels. Investigators detected signs of a document forgery infrastructure in Spain and managed to locate the alleged person responsible in Alicante, from where they were carrying out shipments to various European countries.
The French judicial authorities subsequently issued a European Investigation Order. In execution of that decision, National Police officers conducted two searches in late May in Alicante: one at the home of the person under investigation and another at a property used as a manufacturing laboratory.
Professionalisation and commercial structure
During the searches, abundant material intended for the production and dispatch of documents was found. The investigation also demonstrated a high degree of professionalisation, based on a structured system of commercialisation and distribution supported by marketing tools for customer acquisition.
The arrested person remains in provisional prison in Spain and is also subject to a European Arrest Warrant and Surrender Order issued by the French authorities.
The role of the Athens Point
The National Police highlighted the function of the so-called Athens Point, integrated into the Central Unit against Illegal Immigration Networks and Document Forgeries. This service acts as a rapid consultation centre allowing officers to verify the authenticity of identity, travel or driving documents when forgery is suspected.
When irregularities are detected, specialists produce a technical report with digital signature that is incorporated into police proceedings, facilitating a swift response in cases linked to irregular immigration or the use of fraudulent documentation.
Source: Google News ES — Crime (es)