A Chilean gang who specialised in climbing perimeter walls to raid luxury homes has been busted by the Policia Nacional.
At least four people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in around 10 burglaries between Malaga city, Mijas and Nerja.
They were stopped just before embarking on a new wave of targets in Marbella and Estepona, police said.
The suspects, all of Chilean origin, are accused of specialising in climbing perimeter walls and forcing locks and windows, targeting properties in wealthier areas, particularly homes surrounded by boundary walls.
Cash, jewellery and small high-value items were the main targets. All four have now been remanded in custody.
An investigation was launched in October following police reports from residents in the eastern part of Malaga city.
Police say the group had temporarily based themselves in a flat in Malaga city centre, which they allegedly used to plan the burglaries.
Investigators say the group operated with a clear division of labour.
The only woman in the group allegedly carried out discreet reconnaissance in residential areas, checking whether homes were temporarily unoccupied by ringing doorbells or looking for signs such as lights being switched on.
It’s a warning for British homeowners who spend months of time away from their Costa del Sol pad to make sure it is being well looked after.
Once targets were selected, two other suspects would carry out the break-ins, wearing gloves, caps and balaclavas.
After climbing perimeter walls, they are accused of forcing doors and windows using tools including angle grinders, crowbars and screwdrivers, before quickly searching properties for valuables.
A fourth suspect allegedly acted as driver and support, facilitating movement between locations.
Police say the arrests also prevented a new wave of burglaries that the group was allegedly planning in Estepona, Marbella, Torrox and Velez-Malaga, after officers traced their latest movements.
The investigation also revealed that the group allegedly carried out repeated shoplifting offences in large retail stores, using shielded bags designed to block alarm systems.
During a search of the Málaga city centre flat used as their base, officers seized jewellery, cash, watches, mobile phones, branded clothing, shielded bags, tools and clothing allegedly used in the burglaries.
