Authorities in Spain are continuing to investigate a case of alleged medical fraud centered in Burgos, with recent developments revealing a wider scope of deception than initially understood. A woman, along with her son and former partner, have been arrested and released with conditions while proceedings continue, accused of providing treatments without medical qualifications and defrauding vulnerable individuals. The investigation, dubbed “Adabur,” now extends beyond fabricated medical therapies to include illegal pet sales and potential financial crimes.
The alleged scheme, which appears to have been operating since at least , involved the woman presenting herself as a medical specialist – specifically in neurology, neurosurgery and neurophysiology – despite lacking any official medical degree. Investigators state she sometimes provided a membership number from the American Medical Association to lend credibility to her claims. She allegedly prescribed “invented” therapies at high prices to patients seeking help for physical or psychological problems.
The Guardia Civil has identified at least ten victims directly impacted by the alleged fraudulent medical treatments. These individuals are located across several regions of Spain, including Asturias, Burgos, Gipuzkoa, and Valencia. The investigation has uncovered that the accused used multiple aliases – “Hada” as a doctor, “Celia” for dog sales, and “Israel” when falsifying veterinary prescriptions – to facilitate her activities.
Beyond the direct victims of the purported medical fraud, the investigation has revealed further alleged offenses. Two individuals were reportedly defrauded through the sale of dogs that were never delivered. Two more have been identified as victims of damages and outstanding debts related to rented properties. Perhaps most concerning, the investigation has implicated a veterinary clinic and a registered veterinarian, alleging non-payment for treatments, prescription forgery, and potential identity theft.
The financial aspect of the alleged fraud is also significant. Despite reporting no official work activity, investigators discovered approximately €285,000 in transfers received into one of the woman’s accounts over the past seven years. This substantial sum raises questions about the scale of the operation and the extent of the financial harm inflicted on victims.
The accused allegedly utilized falsified prescriptions to obtain antibiotics, eye drops, anti-inflammatories, and vaccines, further demonstrating the potential risk to public health posed by the scheme. The Guardia Civil’s investigation is ongoing, and the detainees are currently subject to provisional release with the requirement to appear in court on the and of each month.
This case highlights the vulnerability of individuals seeking medical help and the importance of verifying the credentials of healthcare providers. The alleged actions not only caused financial harm but also potentially jeopardized the health and well-being of those who sought treatment. The use of fabricated qualifications and the falsification of prescriptions represent serious offenses with potentially far-reaching consequences.
The investigation’s expansion to include veterinary fraud and financial crimes underscores the complex nature of the alleged scheme. The involvement of a veterinary clinic and a registered veterinarian raises concerns about the integrity of the veterinary profession and the potential for further victims. The discovery of outstanding debts and property damage suggests a pattern of exploitative behavior extending beyond medical treatments and pet sales.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify and support all those affected by the alleged fraud. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and due diligence when seeking medical care or purchasing services from individuals or businesses. Individuals who suspect they may have been victims of this scheme are encouraged to contact the Guardia Civil to provide information and seek assistance.
