Marbella-Based Criminal Organisation Dismantled by National Police
The National Police have successfully dismantled a criminal organisation operating out of Marbella. The group, comprised of former Eastern European military personnel, was notorious for robbing luxury homes and businesses along the Costa del Sol.
71 Thefts Attributed to the Criminal Gang
The members of the criminal organisation, who were armed and adept at stealing, have been linked to 71 thefts from homes and businesses, predominantly in Marbella’s luxury residential areas. The police operation, dubbed “Operation Western,” led to the arrest of six individuals, including the gang’s leader, an Albanian national who participated in all the robberies and was always armed.
Police Recover Stolen Goods and Seize Weapons
The operation resulted in the recovery of 169 pieces of jewellery, high-end watches, luxury handbags, and other designer items. The police also seized a pistol used in all the robberies, a real shotgun, a dummy shotgun, transmitting equipment, specific clothing for the robberies, a large machete, tools for forced robbery, computer equipment, and 8,700 euros in cash.
Investigation Leads to Dismantling of Active Robbery Network
The investigation, conducted by Marbella police station officers in collaboration with their counterparts at the provincial police headquarters in Malaga and various specialist National Police units, led to the dismantling of one of the most active robbery networks in the province. The criminal organisation was responsible for 64 robberies in Marbella, including 58 homes and six businesses, and seven other criminal acts in Estepona, Malaga, and Torremolinos.
Modus Operandi of the Sophisticated Gang
The gang operated in a sophisticated manner, making initial investigations challenging for the police. Their military training allowed them to execute robberies flawlessly, leaving few clues behind. They meticulously studied all locations before carrying out robberies, targeting luxury homes in Marbella between 7pm and 10pm, and spending an average of just 7 to 10 minutes on the property.
Hideout and Escape Routes Key to Gang’s Success
The gang’s success can be attributed to a hideout in the Artola area, used as a meeting point. The gang leader would leave his home in regular clothes, meet up with one or two accomplices, and change into his robbery attire at the hideout. After committing the crime, they would make several stops to ensure they were not being followed, then return to the hideout to change back into their regular clothes.
Six Detained Face Multiple Charges
The six individuals arrested face charges including robbery with force, membership of a criminal organisation, and money laundering. Four of the suspects were sent to prison before trial, without bail. The judicial proceedings continue under an order of secrecy.
