In a sweeping international operation against food fraud, the Spanish Guardia Civil has arrested 32 individuals and is investigating 21 others.

The operation, known as OPSON XIII, targeted fraudulent practices involving lower-quality food products, particularly affecting olive oil and wines with protected designation of origin.

Authorities conducted over 3,000 inspections across Spain, uncovering 2,200 administrative violations.

The operation led to the seizure of 22,000 tons of illicit products and 850,000 liters of beverages, valued at over 91 million euros.

Key arrests included the owners of a canning company in La Rioja, who were found to be selling tuna of inferior quality and using sunflower oil instead of olive oil.

This operation is part of a broader European effort, involving 29 countries, to combat food fraud and ensure consumer safety.