Spain's Elite Police: Beyond limits

Few officers gain access to the elite corps of the Spanish National Police, one of the most demanding training courses in the world. Candidates experience a gruelling first 24 hours at the GEO training camp in Guadalajara.

The instructors attempt to get to the core of the trainees and discover their weaknesses, strengths and whatever may be holding them back. The ability to adapt and improvise becomes key.

Rigorous shooting and hand-to-hand combat practice begins. The trainees face their first GEO mission: to prevent the theft of the group mascot.

During Europe's first Islamist terrorist attack in 2004, the GEO lost one of its members. This is always remembered while training new candidates.

The group move to the National Police School in Ávila, where they learn more specialised hand-to-hand tactics. Only 18 trainees remain out of the 100 who started.

After 20 weeks, the pressure is still mounting. The trainees are put through high-risk simulations and must learn to lead.