The profession of private investigation in Spain, although not usually associated with extreme risk, also has its darker side. L.H.B. — a detective with more than 25 years of experience — was found dead in a vacant lot in Madrid, bound and with a bag over his head. This incident, reported in 2006, stands as one of the most serious and publicized cases of violence against this profession, offering valuable lessons for those of us who work in private security.

He had disappeared the night before and was a professional recognized for his career by the Professional Association of Private Detectives of Spain.

Although most private investigations do not involve direct confrontation or high physical risk, the fact that a detective can end up murdered shows that the danger is never zero. In environments where fraud, misconduct, or covert crimes are investigated, those under scrutiny may react with violence, resentment, or revenge.

The case of L.H.B. not only marked a turning point in the history of private investigation in Spain but also reminds us that security should never be taken for granted — not even by those who work to protect it every day. His death revealed that risk is an inherent part of every pursuit of truth.

As security professionals, we have the responsibility to learn from this event: to strengthen protection protocols, look after our teams, and maintain close coordination with law enforcement. The best way to honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty is to ensure that no one else shares the same fate.