Truck thefts in service areas: gang dismantled in Aragón, Catalonia and La Rioja
In recent years, the rise of organized crime targeting the transportation sector has become a pressing issue. The alarming trend of truck thefts not only affects logistics companies but also endangers the safety of drivers on the roads. A recent operation conducted by the Guardia Civil has unveiled the extent of this criminal activity in Spain, leading to significant arrests and the dismantling of a major theft ring.
Guardia Civil’s Operation “Ordag-Teloners”: A Major Blow to Truck Theft
The Guardia Civil has successfully concluded its operation named “Ordag-Teloners,” aimed at dismantling a criminal organization engaged in the theft of goods from trucks. This initiative was launched in response to growing concerns among transporters and businesses in the logistics sector.
As a result of the operation, 26 individuals were arrested for their suspected involvement in serious crimes including belonging to a criminal organization, robbery with violence and intimidation, theft, damage, and receiving stolen property.
Investigators attribute 59 thefts to this group, primarily targeting trucks parked in service areas along major highways in Aragón, Cataluña, and La Rioja. The suspects, comprising 22 men and 4 women of various nationalities aged between 22 and 57, have extensive criminal records.
The group employed intimidation and threats to subdue potential resistance during their operations, significantly heightening the sense of vulnerability among truck drivers.
Recovery of Stolen Goods: A Significant Find
The investigation led to the uncovering of two reception and distribution centers located in Sant Adrià de Besòs and Cerdanyola del Vallès, both in Barcelona. During the operation, law enforcement recovered approximately nine tons of stolen goods, which were intended for the illicit market.
The items seized included:
- High-end televisions
- Computer equipment
- Electric scooters
- Video game consoles
- Designer glasses and clothing
The total estimated value of the recovered merchandise surpasses 1.5 million euros, showcasing the scale of the operation and the group's criminal endeavors.
Phases of the Investigation: Uncovering a Criminal Network
The investigation can be divided into two main phases, each revealing more about the criminal activities of the "loneros," a term used to describe these specific thieves.
First Phase: Initial Investigations and Arrests
In August 2024, the Guardia Civil officers from Huesca initiated inquiries into a series of robberies in which thieves targeted large trucks parked in service areas along the AP-2 highway. They managed to identify a group of individuals as the primary suspects, despite the criminals employing various counter-surveillance measures.
After several months, investigators arrested five suspects and recovered approximately three tons of stolen goods, marking the beginning of a larger crackdown on the organized crime network.
Second Phase: Escalation of Criminal Activities
By early January, it became evident that the previously dismantled organization had restructured and escalated its criminal activities. The group's behavior grew increasingly violent, leading to a significant uptick in thefts across service areas on the AP-2 and AP-68 highways.
The total number of robberies included:
- 39 in Huesca
- 9 in La Rioja
- 4 in Zaragoza
- 2 in Lleida
In response to this escalation, additional agents from the Guardia Civil in La Rioja joined the investigation efforts, facilitating better coordination among various units involved.
Organizational Structure and Methods
The investigation revealed a highly structured criminal organization, with distinct roles assigned to each member:
- Lookouts and scouts who identified target trucks
- Drivers of getaway vehicles
- Thieves who executed the cuts on truck tarpaulins and stole the cargo
Furthermore, it was discovered that the group operated with its own logistics channels and had established distribution networks, which included the aforementioned reception centers in Barcelona.
Operational Deployment: A Coordinated Effort
This comprehensive investigation was jointly directed by the Judicial Police Units from Huesca and La Rioja, under the supervision of the Court of Instruction No. 1 in Fraga (Huesca). The operation involved various law enforcement units, including:
- Citizen Security Units
- Traffic Police
- The Pegaso team utilizing drones
- The Air Service using helicopters
This multi-faceted approach facilitated a thorough investigation that ultimately led to the successful arrest of all members of the organization and the seizure of additional stolen goods.
As the investigation continues, it highlights the importance of vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement agencies to combat the growing threat of organized crime in the transport sector. The efforts of the Guardia Civil serve as a reminder that while challenges remain, proactive measures can lead to significant breakthroughs in ensuring the safety and security of transport operations.
For more insights, you may want to watch this informative video on the operation:
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