• Operation 'Botuli' has led to the detection of a clandestine center where aesthetic treatments were being performed without medical authorization.

• During the search, uncontrolled medications, medical instruments and narcotic substances were found.

• The investigation was carried out by the Tax Agency's Customs Surveillance in collaboration with the Civil Guard.

April 2, 2025.- The Basque Country Regional Area of Customs Surveillance of the State Tax Administration Agency, in collaboration with the Civil Guard of the Organic Unit of the Judicial Police of Álava and agents of the Civil Guard of the Tax Section of Álava, and with the technical advice of the Health Organization and Accreditation Service, Planning and Digitalization in Health, of the Department of Health of the Basque Government, have carried out the 'Botuli' operation with the aim of investigating an alleged crime against public health linked to the illicit importation, distribution and administration of botulinum toxin (Botox).

Initial investigations led to the discovery of a clandestine clinic in an apartment in Bilbao, where cosmetic treatments were offered without the corresponding authorization from the Basque Government.

 Given the existence of solid evidence, the Bilbao Duty Court authorized the entry and search of the property.

During the inspection, officers found various medications without medical supervision, medical instruments, a stretcher, and other items confirming the center's irregular activities.

Narcotic substances such as amphetamines intended for the home's residents were also found.

As a result of the operation, the owner of the illegal clinic was arrested and brought before the Bilbao Court of First Instance, which is investigating the case.