October 7, 2025 – A sophisticated organised crime network responsible for the theft of over 100 luxury hybrid cars, valued at an estimated EUR 3 million, has been dismantled in a joint international operation led by the Italian Carabinieri with the support of Europol and Eurojust. The criminal network, primarily composed of Moldovan nationals, operated across northern Italy and Spain’s Marbella region.
The Criminal Network and Its Modus Operandi
The Russian-speaking criminal network targeted high-end hybrid vehicles, stealing them from various locations and disassembling them to sell parts on international illegal markets. Key components like bodywork, battery packs, and mechanical parts were shipped through the European port of Antwerp. Investigators uncovered a highly coordinated operation, including the use of GPS trackers to monitor vehicles, electronic tools to bypass security systems, and alteration of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) and license plates. The criminals were also linked to shipping companies, ensuring the stolen vehicles were transported internationally.
Action Day Results
On October 7, 2025, a major action day led to the arrest of 9 individuals in the Italian regions of Reggio Emilia and Lombardy. Authorities also seized EUR 35,000 in cash and EUR 150,000 in cryptocurrencies, revealing the criminal network’s complex financial operations. The coordinated action involved over 100 officers, supported by Spanish Guardia Civil officers deployed to Belgium and Italy, and Italian Carabinieri teams sent to Spain and Belgium. Crypto-experts from multiple countries assisted in recovering illicit digital assets, tracing approximately EUR 1 million in cryptocurrency transfers.
European Coordination and Support
Europol played a central role in coordinating the international phase of the operation, facilitating operational meetings and supporting national authorities with intelligence sharing and analysis. The European coordination ensured effective collaboration among the involved countries, and Europol’s mobile office provided on-the-ground support. Eurojust also contributed by facilitating the creation of a joint investigation team between Italy and Spain, which was established in 2024 to dismantle the criminal organisation.
Participating Authorities and Continued Efforts
The investigation was supported by several European law enforcement agencies, including:
- Belgium: Federal Judicial Police of Antwerp
- Italy: Carabinieri of Reggio Emilia
- Spain: Guardia Civil
The operation was also backed by the ON Network, funded by the EU Commission and led by the Italian Antimafia Investigation Directorate (DIA). As part of the EMPACT initiative, which focuses on tackling serious international crime in the EU, this operation forms part of a broader, ongoing effort to combat organised crime and strengthen cooperation between EU institutions, national authorities, and international partners.
What Happens Next
While the investigation has made significant progress in dismantling the network, Europol and national authorities continue to collaborate on follow-up actions. The operation highlights the growing threat posed by organised crime groups operating across borders and the increasing importance of international cooperation in tackling such crimes. Further updates will be shared as the investigation unfolds.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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