Car theft gang dismantled in Attica – 8 arrests, gains of €350,000
Police have dismantled a major car theft gang in Attica, arresting 8 members. The estimated proceeds exceed €350,000.
Attica Police: Eight arrests for vehicle thefts across seven areas
Eight members of an organised car theft gang, including the leader of the organisation, have been arrested in Attica in a coordinated operation by the Prosecution and Investigation Department for Western Attica in cooperation with the Organised Crime Prosecution Directorate, as reported by gocar.gr.
Those arrested are aged 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 45, 55 and 60 years old. The arrests were made in Kamatero, Peristerio and Acharnes.
Seizures and modus operandi
During searches at the homes of those accused, 13 stolen and tampered vehicles were seized, along with GPS tracking devices and frequency jamming equipment, radio frequency detection devices, as well as vehicle parts and number plates.
The organisation operated during night hours, moving to various areas of Attica to scout targets. Members selected vehicles matching their preferences without raising suspicion.
To remove motorcycles, those accused destroyed or bypassed anti-theft mechanisms. Subsequently, using the "mat" method and with the help of "operational" motorcycles, they transferred the stolen vehicles to public spaces for temporary concealment and to avoid GPS tracking.
Hierarchy and roles within the organisation
The leader coordinated individual operations, provided financial support to members, and assembled them before each operation. His orders were relayed either directly or through the 24-year-old, who held a high-ranking position and functioned as a link between the leader and other members.
The leader, along with the 24-year-old, 18-year-old and 23-year-old, undertook the removal of vehicles. The 55-year-old handled their transfer from temporary concealment points, whilst the 45-year-old is said to have taken responsibility for marketing them through a shop he operated.
According to the investigation, members had prior experience in similar offences, and alternated roles for more effective and safer execution of each stage of criminal activity.
Seven areas and financial gain
From the preliminary investigation, a total of 23 vehicle thefts were identified in Chaidari, Peristerio, Agioi Anargyroi, Ilion, Nikaia, Acharnes and Palaio Faliro.
The total financial gain to the criminal organisation is estimated to exceed €350,000. Those arrested were referred to the competent prosecutorial authorities.
Source: Google News GR — Crime (el)