Spanish police have seized 15 stolen cars concealed in various containers at the Port of Algeciras heading to Morocco, local media reported.
Many of these cars originated from European countries such as France, Germany and Italy.
In connection with the incident, 13 individuals were arrested for handling stolen goods and falsifying documents.
The police also seized a car valued at nearly 300,000 euros intended for export outside Europe. The owner is under investigation by the Dutch police over money laundering suspicion.
To determine true ownership and legal status, five high-end cars underwent preventive scrutiny. Observations of deficiencies were reported to Spanish administrative and tax authorities to carry out necessary action.
The news outlet “Ceuta Actualidad” reported that those involved in this illegal act used a method called “triangulation,” where they steal rental, leased, or rented cars and hide the true owner’s identity by fraudulently changing ownership multiple times.
“They export these cars to Africa and sell them on the black market. The swift response of European cooperation mechanisms has been crucial, as in many cases, the legitimate owners were unaware of their vehicles’ situation,” the same outlet added.