Mossos d’Esquadra and Guardia Civil have dismantled a highly organised criminal group. This group was responsible for at least 27 ram-raid jewellery robberies across Spain. The joint operation concluded on 17 March. It led to the arrest of six individuals, aged between 27 and 60.
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Investigators attribute crimes to the group between November 2025 and March 2026. These incidents caused an estimated €1 million in damages. This figure includes stolen high-value jewellery, vehicles, and property destruction. In Catalonia, the gang targeted the Arrufat jewellery shop in La Sénia, Montsià, in early February. They also hit the Losada jewellery shop in Flix, Ribera d’Ebre, on 20 February. These incidents exemplify the group’s consistent and violent method of operation.
The group demonstrated significant mobility and logistical capability. They operated in multiple Spanish provinces within short periods. Beyond Catalonia, their targets included jewellery shops in Benicàssim, Castelló. They also struck in Sonseca, Toledo; Andorra, Teruel; Villarejo de Salvanés, Madrid; and Campohermoso-Níjar, Almería. This extensive reach complicated police efforts. It made connecting the various criminal acts challenging.
Sophisticated Modus Operandi
The criminal group employed a sophisticated and highly coordinated modus operandi. Each member had clear, assigned roles. Before each assault, they conducted thorough surveillance and reconnaissance of the target establishments. This involved analysing access points, security systems, and potential escape routes. Once they selected an objective, the gang prepared for the assault. They used high-powered vehicles, often stolen or fitted with manipulated number plates. This helped them evade identification.
The actual assaults were swift and violent. They utilised the ram-raid technique. Perpetrators drove a vehicle directly into the jewellery shop’s entrance. They breached it in seconds. With faces concealed and wearing gloves, they avoided leaving forensic evidence. They rapidly entered the premises. Their primary targets were high-value jewellery and watches, which they stole within minutes. Simultaneously, other group members provided external surveillance and logistical support. This ensured a quick and effective escape from the scene. This rapid execution significantly hampered immediate police response.
Rapid Disposal of Stolen Goods
A critical aspect of the criminal network was its efficient system for disposing of stolen goods. According to the investigation, the stolen jewellery was quickly placed onto the second-hand market. This was typically facilitated through a gold and jewellery buying and selling establishment. The speed of these transactions made it extremely difficult for authorities to recover the stolen items. It also hindered tracing their origins. The estimated economic impact of their activities totals approximately one million euros. This figure includes the value of stolen items, vehicles used, and damage to premises.
Ongoing Investigation
The operational phase of the investigation culminated on 17 March. It involved five house searches and one commercial premises search. These raids occurred across the provinces of Castelló, Madrid, and Toledo. During the searches, agents recovered items linked to the robberies. They also found other evidence crucial to the ongoing inquiry. The six arrested individuals face charges. These include membership of a criminal group, aggravated robbery, and vehicle theft. They also face charges for larceny, document forgery, and handling stolen goods. The investigating court number 4 in Castelló de la Plana has ordered four of the suspects to pre-trial detention. The investigation remains open. Police do not rule out further arrests connected to this itinerant organisation. This case highlights the persistent challenge of organised crime groups. These groups operate across regional borders, impacting businesses and residents throughout Catalonia and Spain.
Sign up for our new entrepreneurs community Bizcelona, now accepting our second wave of applicants.
Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.
