A gang linked to a string of violent robberies in the Costa del Sol region has drawn the attention of the National Police. The group, composed mostly of former Eastern European soldiers, targeted luxury homes and high-profile businesses across most coastal municipalities, including Marbella. Before each raid, members conducted meticulous pre-attack surveys of potential targets, favoring properties near golf courses to facilitate rapid escapes. In a press briefing, authorities confirmed that six suspects have been detained, including the alleged leader and a citizen of Albania. The gang is described as highly trained in boarding properties and evading surveillance. One police source stated that a member actively participated in every robbery and routinely carried a firearm on his person. Several of the incidents are being investigated as robberies involving force or threats, according to residents who reported the events.
The operation, named Western, began on January 18 with multiple searches across Malaga province, including Fuengirola, Málaga, Mijas, and Torremolinos. Law enforcement recovered 169 pieces of jewelry as well as other items seized from the attacks. Investigators also found weapons and equipment used in the assaults, including a live shotgun, a replica or dummy firearm, a telescopic defense device, a brass knuckle, communications gear, clothing such as boots, balaclavas and gloves, a large machete, and tools intended to maximize force during the crimes. Cash amounting to 8,700 euros was also seized.
The investigation was led by officers from Marbella Police Station’s Local Judicial Police Brigade, with cooperation from the Provincial Police and several specialized units. The network has been described as one of the most active crime rings in the area, with authorities noting an uptick in similar attacks recently. Investigators report that the group has committed around 64 robberies in Marbella alone, with 58 targeting homes and six targeting workplaces, in addition to seven other criminal acts in Estepona, Málaga, and Torremolinos.
modus operandi
Initial inquiries focused on a string of violent robberies in Marbella homes that followed a consistent pattern. The gang used specialized vehicles to force entry through doors, windows, or safes within a narrow time window. Their preferred targets were residential properties and businesses situated near golf courses, especially in the Artola and Río Real areas.
Police work eventually identified several members and the material resources they relied on, including the vehicles used during travel, which were often rented. Investigators discovered a collaboration with a Spanish businessperson running a vehicle trade in Malaga that supplied cars with unclear ownership, forged documents, or no contracts, complicating the follow-up of investigations.
The group’s military background enabled them to apply security measures and counter-surveillance while moving on foot or in vehicles, employing sharp turn maneuvers and unpredictable stops to evade pursuit.
In terms of tasks, the group’s leadership oversaw planning and review of all operations and took responsibility for disposing of stolen items. Two Eastern European associates served as drivers and provided the necessary tools and support for the others, while a fourth member managed the rental vehicle fleet.