National Police officers arrested 29 individuals connected to a criminal organization suspected of repeatedly removing catalytic converters across the country.
All 15 search operations were carried out in the provinces of Malaga, Madrid and Toledo, according to a statement issued by the National Police.
Group members reportedly distributed the stolen catalysts within the Community of Madrid, where the organization had its base, and to a Malaga-based company. The products were later sold to a buyer in Houston, United States.
The investigation began last August following a series of arrests in Malaga on charges related to catalyst theft. Investigators identified a mobile criminal network operating across Spain that coordinated these crimes and distributed the proceeds.
Researchers mapped the supply chain through which the catalysts moved, tracing the initial purchases by Madrid-region merchants who exported the items abroad, particularly to Houston, Texas. Several companies were found attempting to legitimize the sale of stolen catalysts by falsifying invoices and documents tied to those sales.
Authorities also identified and detained members of the organization, including those responsible for the thefts and those involved in document falsification linked to the sales. Six of the active members were placed under temporary detention. One prominent member is alleged to have committed up to 43 criminal acts.
During the operation, 16 arrests were made in Madrid city, three in San Fernando de Henares, two in Leganés, one in Getafe and one in Torrejón de Ardoz. Across Malaga, four arrests were made, with additional captures in the town of Seseña in Toledo and in Talavera de la Reina.
In 15 locations, authorities arrested six people in Madrid, two in Getafe, one in San Fernando de Henares, one in Torrejón de Ardoz, one in Leganés, three in Málaga, and one in Seseña. Investigators also seized a large quantity of catalysts and tools, 40,000 euros in cash, a firearm and ammunition, plus documents linked to illegal activity tied to the thefts. The operation clarified the scope of 501 related actions carried out in several provinces as the inquiry continued to unfold across the country.
All information below is sourced from official police statements and subsequent case summaries provided for public record and law enforcement collaboration.