In a coordinated operation, Civil Guard officers intercepted a group in Elche and later traced a locally organized gang involved in vehicle theft. The group used stolen vehicles to commit additional crimes in the provinces of Alicante and Murcia. Two suspects arrested in Elche were released on parole while the judicial process continued at the remand prison in Alquerías.
Authorities allege that the detainees were part of a criminal organization and involved in theft with violence and threats, theft from homes and workplaces using force, vehicle theft, document falsification, and handling stolen goods. A total of 16 vehicles were recovered during the operation, with 11 subsequently returned to their owners. In several robberies, the criminals employed white firearms or other weapons.
The Investigation Command of the Almoradí area initiated the inquiry last October after uncovering the existence of a structured group specializing in stealing vehicles for use in other crimes.
The gang operated in Daya Vieja, San Fulgencio, Pilar de la Horadada and Elche, with activity extending beyond Murcia to include Torre Pacheco, El Raal, San Javier and Los Alcázares.
public parking lots
Investigators learned that the suspects would drive to a town, seize a vehicle, and then leave it in a public parking area in another nearby location. After a few days, they would return to retrieve the vehicle and carry out further thefts at preselected sites.
The stolen cars were then used in robberies carried out with the so‑called “moon landing” technique, and the suspects even forged or transferred documents to other individuals. The vehicles were allegedly moved to Morocco and marketed as legitimate, refurbished, or “clean” cars.
The gang’s initial crimes targeted construction warehouses and private residences, where vehicles were repeatedly stolen. As time passed, the group intensified its violence, and at times firearms or bladed weapons were used to threaten victims.
The Civil Guard’s first phase of the operation culminated in the Elche seizure of a concealed workshop and the arrest of two individuals connected to the case. Authorities reported that property valued at 12,000 euros and cash amounting to around 2,000 euros, along with numerous altered plates and various documents tied to stolen vehicles, were recovered or damaged to prevent illegal use. Four passenger cars were also seized, one of which was later returned to its rightful owner.
Both detainees appeared before a court in Elche, where a precautionary measure limited their freedom temporarily. The investigation continued, and on March 7, the alleged ringleader was apprehended in Alquerías. At his residence, investigators recovered several tools and clothing used in the crimes, 790 euros in cash and two additional vehicles.
The individual in question already had extensive police records, and Murcia authorities ordered his transfer to a prison facility following the court order. Throughout the inquiry, the Civil Guard reported the seizure of 16 vehicles, with 11 subsequently returned to their owners. Efforts are ongoing to locate the rightful owners of other items seized during the operation, as investigators continue to pursue remaining leads. .