A 45-year-old man has been remanded in custody after allegedly defrauding six residents of Santa Pola in Alicante out of more than 30,000 euros through a fake awning installation business.

According to the Guardia Civil, the suspect presented quotes for awning work and requested full or partial payment in advance. Once the money had been transferred, he stopped responding to clients or repeatedly delayed the work without carrying it out. The investigation, known as Operation Umbrellashade, began on 14 April after several similar complaints were filed.

Officers said the man had changed his daily routine and rarely left his home because he was already subject to various search and imprisonment orders linked to similar offences. He allegedly continued to attract customers online and through social media.

On 30 April, officers entered his home, where he reportedly tried to flee through the basement before being intercepted and arrested on suspicion of continued fraud. The Court of First Instance and Instruction in Elx has ordered his imprisonment. The Guardia Civil has not ruled out further victims and is urging anyone affected to come forward.