The Guardia Civil has dealt a major blow to a car theft ring after intercepting 33 vehicles at the port of Tarifa before they could be shipped to Morocco.
The operation resulted in five arrests and 30 people placed under investigation, following a two-month probe led by officers from the Algeciras Command.
Many of the recovered vehicles were high-end models, either brand new or just a few months old.
Investigators confirmed the cars had been stolen not only in Spain, but across several EU countries, including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands, as well as Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
All of the vehicles showed tampering with identification elements, a common tactic used to evade border controls and facilitate export out of the EU.
Among the most seized models, and the most valuable, were:
- Two Mercedes AMG G63
- One Audi RS Q8
- Two Audi RS Q3
- Two Range Rover Sport
The combined value of these vehicles alone is estimated at around €1.5 million. All were destined for the African market.
During the same operation, officers stopped a van loaded with five electric scooters and three electric bicycles, all stolen in France and valued at more than €10,000.
One of the most striking cases involved an Audi RS4 worth €110,000. Its driver was arrested after investigators discovered he had financed the car in Germany using the identity of a deceased Spanish man.
According to the Guardia Civil, the suspect posed as a close relative of the deceased in order to complete the financing process. Thanks to rapid coordination with the German finance company, officers were also able to block three further attempted purchases made using the same false identity.
In parallel operations away from the port area, officers recovered four additional stolen vehicles that were also being prepared for transport to Morocco.
As a result of the operation, five people have been arrested and 30 others are under investigation for offences.
The Guardia Civil has already contacted the rightful owners of the recovered vehicles, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles to arrange their return.
All detainees, along with the seized vehicles and evidence, have been placed at the disposal of the judicial authorities.
