Two British holidaymakers in Benidorm are facing serious legal trouble after allegedly faking a kidnapping in an attempt to extend their trip and extract more money from family members back home.
The men, aged 37 and 51, reportedly sent relatives a disturbing video showing one of them holding a knife to his blood-covered friend while demanding a £725 ransom, threatening to kill him if the money was not paid.
The alarming footage prompted Spanish authorities to launch a major emergency response. Police mobilised hostage negotiators and deployed significant resources to the unnamed hotel where the pair were staying. However, as officers prepared to move in, they reportedly saw the supposed victim casually leaving the hotel with his alleged captor, both appearing relaxed and engaged in friendly conversation.
According to an Alicante police spokesperson, all available local police units were mobilised due to the apparent seriousness of the situation. Specialist officers from Madrid with expertise in kidnapping and extortion cases were also deployed.
Investigators quickly determined that the kidnapping had been staged in a bid to obtain money. Both men were arrested on suspicion of simulating a crime and committing fraud.
Matters worsened when police discovered that the alleged kidnapper had used a false identity to check into the hotel and again when speaking to officers, leading to an additional suspicion of identity fraud.
The pair now face possible prison sentences and could be required to compensate authorities for the extensive police resources used in responding to what officials describe as a fabricated emergency.