Spanish authorities are currently investigating multiple alleged sexual assaults on teenage girls who claim they were targeted while on a cruise ship after having their drinks spiked. Approximately ten girls, aged 15 and 16, from the same school in the Basque Country reported the incidents to the police. The Civil Guard in Barcelona, where the ship docked on May 1, gathered statements from eight victims, while the Ertzaintza, the Basque Country’s main police force, interviewed the other two.
Although no arrests have been made yet, the suspects, who were not part of the girls’ group, have been identified and located. The four-day Mediterranean cruise, which started and ended in Barcelona, was organized privately for the school trip where the alleged assaults took place. The Basque Government’s Security Minister confirmed that two complaints were filed with the local police.
A spokesperson for the Civil Guard in Barcelona mentioned that they were alerted to the incidents involving minors upon the cruise ship’s arrival. The potential perpetrators are believed to be adults, and an active investigation is ongoing with statements being collected. The matter has been referred to a local court for further action.
The investigation is focusing on possible sexual assaults, which can encompass various illegal behaviors under Spanish law, not limited to rape. Authorities are exploring the possibility that the minors were given alcohol or drugs before the alleged incidents. While local reports have suggested the suspects are a couple in their twenties, the police have not confirmed this information.
