Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Guardia Civil Arrests Eight in Madrid Over ‘Método de la Siembra’ Vehicle Thefts

Authorities charged the detainees with theft, document falsification, fraud, membership in a criminal organization after a yearlong probe into parking lot scams that yielded around €60,000.

Un vehículo de la Policía Nacional
Una de las detenidas junto a los agentes de la Benemérita
Image

Overview

  • Operation Chullo culminated on June 29 with the detention of eight individuals suspected of orchestrating coordinated vehicle distractions across Madrid.
  • The suspects face 20 counts of theft, 11 of document falsification, 10 of fraud and charges of belonging to a criminal organization.
  • Investigators found the ring employed the “método de la siembra,” distracting drivers in supermarket, large-store and gas station parking lots to steal valuables.
  • Analysis of security footage linked incidents across eight municipalities and revealed the use of rental cars registered under false identities.
  • Officials estimate the group stole or defrauded about €60,000 and say inquiries are ongoing to identify further accomplices.