The Spanish National Police have dismantled a criminal organisation that specialised in the theft of high-end SUVs.
These stolen vehicles were then supplied to drug trafficking groups in southern Spain. Six individuals have been arrested in connection with the operation, which involved 46 vehicle thefts across various regions.
Organisation targeted SUVs for drug trafficking groups
The investigation began in October 2023, following a spike in luxury SUV thefts in Spain. The vehicles were stolen from public streets, private garages, and community parking areas. Authorities discovered that the vehicles were being stolen to order for criminal groups involved in drug trafficking, particularly in the Costa del Sol, Cádiz, Huelva, and Seville areas.
The gang specialised in identifying SUVs that met specific client requirements. Once a vehicle was chosen, the thieves installed GPS tracking devices, allowing them to monitor the car’s movements. When instructed, they would proceed to steal the vehicle. The total value of the stolen cars is estimated to be around €3.35 million.
Operation targets key areas in Spain
The Policia Nacional carried out six raids in Marbella, Ojén (Málaga), La Zubia (Granada), Madrid, and Carmona (Seville). They arrested six suspects and recovered 13 of the stolen vehicles. These arrests are linked to 46 thefts in total, with the number of recovered vehicles expected to increase as the investigation continues.
In addition to vehicle theft, nine counts of document forgery were attributed to the group. The suspects were found to have falsified vehicle registration plates and chassis numbers, as well as Bulgarian identity documents.
Highly organised criminal network
The criminal organisation, primarily consisting of Bulgarian nationals, was highly experienced. Many of its members had been previously arrested in other operations, which made the investigation more challenging. They constantly changed residences to avoid detection and operated in secure homes across multiple cities, including one in La Zubia, Granada.
The group had access to sophisticated technology, such as frequency jammers, GPS tracking devices, and equipment used to bypass vehicle alarms, unlock doors, and reprogram car keys. Police also seized a range of electronic devices, mobile phones, and fake identity documents during the raids.
Significant financial impact
The financial damage caused by the thefts is estimated at €3.35 million, with individual vehicles valued between €70,000 and €100,000. When previous police operations are factored in, the organisation is believed to be responsible for a total of 146 vehicle thefts, resulting in an estimated overall loss of nearly €9.82 million.
The arrested individuals face charges related to criminal organisation, vehicle theft, document forgery, and possession of illegal substances.
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