Ayahuasca retreat based in the Netherlands has been closed down
In a dramatic turn of events, a spiritual retreat centre in Pedreguer, Spain, run by Dutch organisers, has been closed down following a police raid. The operation, led by the Guardia Civil, uncovered the illegal preparation and distribution of hallucinogenic substances, including ayahuasca, San Pedro cactus, and Kambó (toad venom).
The retreat, which marketed multi-day packages around €1,000 each, promised spiritual experiences and health benefits, attracting mainly European clients. Three leaders - two men and one woman - were arrested, and five more alleged spiritual guides are under investigation, charged with drug trafficking, money laundering, and membership in a criminal organization.
The substances were prepared in a rudimentary, unhygienic laboratory within the retreat, which also lacked proper emergency response equipment for intoxications. The authorities seized 11 liters of ayahuasca, 117 San Pedro cacti, and several bottles of Kambó.
It's important to note that ICEERS (International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service) has not been reported to be involved in this retreat's operation, investigation, or shutdown.
This closure serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unregulated ayahuasca retreats, particularly where potentially hazardous psychedelic substances are used without medical oversight or legal permissions.
Meanwhile, Inner Mastery, a company based in Spain, has been organising ayahuasca and other psychoactive plant retreats in multiple countries, including Spain, Italy, Mexico, and Colombia. Recent news about ayahuasca retreat operations in Europe and Costa Blanca North may involve further investigations or developments related to Inner Mastery.
Supporters describe Inner Mastery as a community dedicated to spiritual growth and emotional healing. However, the company has faced multiple police operations and judicial investigations in Spain over alleged drug-related offenses and potential risks to public health. The Pedreguer operation, led by Inner Mastery, is considered one of the largest ayahuasca retreat operations in Spain to date.
As the investigation continues, it underscores the need for regulation and oversight in the ayahuasca retreat industry to ensure the safety and well-being of participants.
- The closure of the spiritual retreat centre in Pedreguer, Spain, has highlighted the need for mental-health considerations in therapies-and-treatments involving ayahuasca and other psychoactive substances, as unregulated retreats can pose potential risks to client health and wellness.
- Inner Mastery, a company known for organizing ayahuasca and psychoactive plant retreats, has been a subject of concern due to multiple police operations and judicial investigations in Spain over drug-related offenses and public health risks, which is reminiscent of the illegal preparation and distribution of health-and-wellness focused hallucinogenic substances found in such retreats.
