People smuggling gang detained in Barcelona

Policia Nacional has dismantled an alleged criminal organisation involved in the trafficking and sexual exploitation of women in Barcelona and Tarragona.

Four people have been arrested and five women have been freed. Police say one victim was recruited in Colombia with the promise of a job in Spain, but was instead forced into prostitution and told she had to repay a supposed €4,000 travel debt.

Investigators say the women were subjected to coercion and strict control by the organisation.