The operations, which began after a year-long investigation, targeted individuals illegally distributing medicines and aesthetic medicine products. The Civil Guard located several packages at Vitoria airport containing medicines and health products primarily originating from South Korea and Vietnam.

Among these products were doses of botox, hyaluronic acid, and medications for diabetes, some of which were used for weight loss. These products were imported into Spain without health authorization and without respecting transport and conservation conditions, particularly the necessary cold chain, posing a significant risk to patients and consumers.

Those involved include individuals without healthcare training and also registered professionals who allegedly performed treatments using illegal products in hairdressing salons, unauthorized aesthetic centers, or even private homes.

In Bizkaia, four people were arrested and two investigated; two more were arrested in Barcelona, another two in Las Palmas, and one in Asturias. In total, nine people were arrested and two investigated for crimes against public health and, in some cases, professional intrusion.

As a result of the searches, approximately 10,000 units of botulinum toxin of illegal origin, ready for use, and over 200 vials of hyaluronic acid, introduced outside authorized channels, were found. More than 115,000 euros, allegedly profits from these treatments, were also seized.

Health authorities have warned of the serious danger of undergoing aesthetic procedures performed by unqualified personnel or in unauthorized establishments, using products without traceability acquired online or through illicit distribution networks. Administering botox under non-sterile conditions or with unauthorized products can cause severe infections, severe allergic reactions, facial paralysis, or permanent sequelae.