Guardia Civil’s ‘Operation Gruvila’ has uncovered an alleged illicit scheme in Vilanova i la Geltrú, a coastal town in the Garraf region of Barcelona. The scheme reportedly involved local police and civil servants. They are accused of diverting and illegally reselling vehicles impounded by the municipal tow service.

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Four Arrests Made in Vilanova Scheme

The investigation led to four arrests last week. Those detained included a local police officer, two tow truck drivers, and a civil servant. Additionally, two police commanders face judicial investigation, according to sources close to the inquiry. These individuals were released after questioning. Investigators suspect the scheme involved vehicles removed from public roads. These cars were often abandoned or uninsured. They should have followed a legal administrative process leading to scrapping or permanent deregistration.

Instead, the vehicles were allegedly ‘rescued’ from the official circuit after entering the municipal depot. The scheme allowed these cars to be used by those involved or their associates. They were also sold illegally to third parties. Alternatively, they were dismantled for parts which were then commercialised. This alleged manipulation of administrative procedures, from vehicle removal to final destination, forms the basis of the investigation. Authorities are probing potential offences. These include embezzlement of public funds, misappropriation, and malfeasance.

Sustained Operation Uncovered

The Guardia Civil stated that the system was not an isolated incident. Instead, it was a sustained operation over time. It involved multiple actors within Vilanova i la Geltrú’s municipal structure. Vilanova i la Geltrú, with a population exceeding 68,000 residents, is a significant municipality in the Garraf comarca. It is known for its fishing port and local industries. This context highlights the local impact of such alleged corruption.

Tow truck drivers reportedly played a crucial role in the initial removal and management of vehicles. The arrested local police officer allegedly supervised or controlled the process. The civil servant reportedly provided administrative cover for the irregularities through documentation. These claims come from investigators of the Guardia Civil. The investigation, which began in late 2025 following an internal complaint, also suggests the possible involvement of police commanders. These commanders may have had some degree of participation or knowledge of the alleged activities.

Public Appeal for Information

When ElCaso.com first reported the story last week, Guardia Civil agents entered municipal premises to make the arrests. The number of affected vehicles could be substantial. Furthermore, investigators do not rule out further arrests. The Guardia Civil has appealed to citizens who have processed vehicle removals, transfers, or deregistration in Vilanova i la Geltrú. They ask residents to review their documentation. They should provide information if they detect any irregularities. This public appeal aims to gather more evidence.

The case remains under partial secrecy. The investigating court in Vilanova i la Geltrú will determine the full extent of this alleged structured system. It will also assess the potential economic volume it generated. The Guardia Civil confirms the investigation is ongoing. They continue to gather evidence and pursue all leads.

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Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.