Dozens of Customers Allege Fraud Against Spanish Camper Dealership

More than 60 families across Spain are seeking legal recourse after paying millions of euros to a dealership group, Caravanas Osito, for recreational vehicles that they have yet to receive. The company, which operates locations in San Antonio de Benagéber and La Pobla de Vallbona in the Valencia region, as well as an additional site in Córdoba, is now the subject of multiple complaints filed with the Civil Guard.

The total amount allegedly paid by these customers is estimated to exceed 3.5 million euros. Many of the affected individuals entered into agreements at the International Caravaning Show in Barcelona, while others purchased directly from the company's facilities or online. According to reports, individual losses often range between 70,000 and 100,000 euros, representing significant financial investments for many of the families involved.

One customer from Paterna described her experience after purchasing a camper for 75,000 euros. Despite paying the full amount in January with the expectation of receiving the vehicle shortly thereafter, she remains empty-handed months later. She stated, "We paid in full, and they have been giving us excuses and nonsense, but you end up believing it." She noted that many others are in similar positions, some having taken out loans to finance their purchases, leading to severe personal and financial distress.

The situation has prompted affected customers to organize through social media and messaging platforms to coordinate their legal efforts. During recent visits to the dealership's locations, customers reported finding the facilities closed, with signs citing "inventory" or "vacation" as the reasons for the lack of service. These closures have further fueled concerns among buyers who have been unable to obtain clear information regarding the status of their vehicles or their money.

Francisco Rodríguez, secretary of the Consumers' Union, indicated that his organization has received numerous complaints and warned that the situation appears precarious. He noted that while the company has faced long-standing issues regarding delivery failures, the path forward remains uncertain. Options for the affected parties include civil litigation or potential criminal proceedings, should a judge determine that there was a deliberate intent to defraud customers.

Legal experts suggest that the company may eventually file for bankruptcy, a move that would complicate efforts to recover funds. There is currently no clarity regarding the company's financial health, whether its assets are under lien, or if it has met its tax obligations. As the investigation continues, many families remain in a state of anxiety, struggling to manage the financial burden of loans for vehicles they have never seen or driven.