SPAIN BUSTS VEHICLE-STEALING GANG HAVING BULGARIAN PARTICIPATION

Sofia Echo, Bulgaria
July 19 2006

An organised criminal group, responsible for stealing luxurious
vehicles in Spain has been busted.

The group had Bulgarian and Armenian members, an Interior Ministry
press release said.

Interior Ministry experts aided the Spanish police in the operation.

Most group members were Armenians. The group is responsible for a
series of vehicle stealings in Madrid and the nearby areas.

Once stolen, the vehicles were transported through France and Italy
to Turkey. From there, the cars were taken to Armenia.

The group used electronic technology. Gang members worked on false
documents and car numbers, as well as on ensuring transportation for
the stolen vehicles.

During investigation, police found nine stolen luxury vehicles.

One of the Bulgarians detained has previous criminal record. She was
involved in an illegal vehicle trafficking ring previously.