The Civil Guard, within the framework of “Operation PIPA,” has arrested four men involved in a criminal organization that was robbing public establishments scattered throughout different parts of the country.

The detainees are blamed for the crimes of belonging to a criminal organization, robbery with force, theft of vehicles, theft, falsification of public documents and, to one of them, the crime of usurpation of civil status when trying to pretend to be another person to evade justice.

The group operated in municipalities of Castellón, Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, Cuenca, Toledo, Málaga and Madrid.

The investigation began in April with the theft of one vehicle in Benicarló (Castellón) and the recovery of another in Torreblanca (Castellón). The investigations revealed that these were related to a series of crimes characterized by the use of violence and the speed of execution.

Using the moon landing method and using maces to break through the doors of the shops, the organization used an extinguisher to erase potential fingerprints and steal cash. After the robbery, they quickly escaped in previously stolen high-end vehicles.

The criminal acts were committed in the early morning to avoid being identified by witnesses. Thanks to the analysis of security cameras, technical procedures and testimonies, those responsible could be identified.

The criminal organization was uncovered when one of the cars used was located and the members of the group were arrested when they wanted to rob another store south of Madrid. In the register, tools such as mallets and objects intended to violate locks were seized, in addition to 3,500 euros in cash.

During the operation, property and effects have been recovered that have already been returned to their owners.

The detainees have been placed in pre-trial detention by order of Examining Court number six of Castellón, to which the proceedings have also been referred. The action was carried out by members of the Organic Judicial Police Unit of the Civil Guard of Castellón.