A thirty-eight-year-old man and a twenty-six-year-old woman were arrested by the National Police in Elche, Alicante, for allegedly causing serious injuries to their three-year-old daughter. The couple is suspected of subjecting the child to irreversible genital surgery, a practice commonly referred to as female genital mutilation. The case came to light following a routine medical examination that revealed healed physical signs consistent with this harmful tradition.

The child had arrived in Spain in May twenty twenty-four and was living legally with her parents. The police initiated their investigation after receiving a request from the Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office and a local magistrate. During the medical check-up, healthcare professionals noted alarming signs that warranted further scrutiny.

While being interviewed, the father acknowledged that the procedure performed on the girl was rooted in cultural beliefs but refused to provide specific details regarding where and when the act occurred. Investigators suspect that the surgery took place beyond Spanish territory.

The National Police have reiterated that any action compromising the safety or dignity of minors represents a serious violation of Spanish law. Authorities emphasised that respect for cultural practices must align with human rights as defined by international treaties signed by Spain, ensuring the protection of all children without exceptions.