A destructive sect in Escatrón attacked women: dismantled
The Civil Guard, as part of Operation “Mileniocat”, has dismantled an illegitimate association classified as a “destructive sect” operating in Escatrón, a town in the province of Zaragoza. A total of four people have been arrested as alleged perpetrators of the crimes of unlawful association and fraud, with the sect leader also being charged with threats, coercion, and assault, especially against women. The investigation began after receiving several complaints from victims in Barcelona, who alleged that their leader used psychological manipulation and physical aggression to control their personality and create a total dependence on him, allowing him to profit economically. During the investigations, it was found that the sect leader, self-proclaimed as ‘EVOL’, had conducted various workshops and spiritual retreats related to self-awareness and personal growth. In these workshops, manipulation tactics were used to attract victims and break off all relationships with those outside the association. Once recruited, they were invited to live with the leader and other members of the community, following his teachings and guidelines.
The “sect” was established in 2018 in a remote and inaccessible location in Escatrón, promoting the idea that members should have no contact with the outside world as it was deemed “corrupt” and “sick”, subjecting them to verbal and physical attacks if they had any connection to society. The leader portrayed himself as a “savior” of humanity, promising that in 2027, society as we know it would disappear, with him being the only one with enough knowledge to save members of his community and establish a “new world”. He sought to induce a mental and personal alteration process in the members. He emphasized the crucial role of women in achieving this “new world”, leading him and his associates to recruit mostly women into the sect. They also used violent means and humiliations to establish complete control over their victims in the presence of other members.
Through financial contributions, they were able to improve the facilities of their location, which included a large area of land and various buildings, and organize new workshops to attract more victims.
The investigation revealed the extent of manipulation and abuse perpetrated by the sect, leading to the arrest of key members and the dismantling of the organization. The victims, mostly women, suffered greatly from the psychological and physical control exerted by the leader and his followers. The authorities are urging anyone who may have been affected by this sect or similar organizations to come forward and seek assistance.
It is essential to remain vigilant against such destructive groups that prey on vulnerable individuals and manipulate them for personal gain. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and intervention to prevent the spread of harmful sects in society.