In a major cross-border crackdown, Italian authorities have dismantled a highly sophisticated organised crime syndicate accused of stealing over 100 luxury hybrid cars across Europe.
The international operation, led by the Italian Carabinieri with support from Europol and Eurojust, exposed a Russian-speaking criminal network — mainly composed of Moldovan nationals — behind thefts in northern Italy and Spain’s Marbella region.
Authorities estimate the total value of the stolen cars at over €3 million (₹27 crore approx.), with vehicles and components smuggled via Antwerp Port to illegal international markets.
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Swift Action Day Yields Multiple Arrests and Seizures
On 7 October 2025, an action day saw nine arrests in Italy’s Reggio Emilia and Lombardy regions.
Law enforcement officers seized €35,000 (₹3,622,605 approx.) in cash, €150,000 (₹15,527,400 approx.) in cryptocurrencies, and dismantled storage facilities where stolen vehicles were prepared for export.
The large-scale coordinated action involved 100 officers across Italy, Spain, and Belgium, supported by crypto experts who traced digital transactions linked to the network’s illicit earnings.
Sophisticated Modus Operandi Exposed
Investigators revealed that the gang operated with military-style precision, deploying dedicated teams for theft, storage, and documentation forgery.
The criminal operation used:
- GPS trackers to monitor target vehicles
- Electronic hacking devices to bypass car security systems
- Fake VINs and licence plates from decommissioned vehicles
- Links with shipping firms to discreetly move stolen cars abroad
Authorities also uncovered cryptocurrency transactions worth €1 million, spread across multiple wallets and platforms, indicating a complex financial laundering network.
European Cooperation at Its Best
The investigation showcased unprecedented coordination between European agencies.
- Europol led the intelligence sharing, analysis, and on-ground coordination, deploying mobile units to Italy and Belgium.
- Eurojust established a coordination centre and supported the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed by Italy and Spain in 2024.
- The operation also received backing from the @ON Network, an EU-funded initiative spearheaded by Italy’s Antimafia Investigation Directorate (DIA).
Participating authorities included:
🇧🇪 Belgium – Federal Judicial Police of Antwerp
🇮🇹 Italy – Carabinieri of Reggio Emilia
🇪🇸 Spain – Guardia Civil
Officials said the operation marks a major victory against transnational vehicle trafficking and the use of cryptocurrencies in organised crime
