Police in Barcelona and Santa Coloma de Gramenet arrested five individuals. They are linked to a criminal gang. This group stole over 12 tonnes of metal from businesses. The thefts occurred across Catalonia and Aragón. The stolen material, including copper, brass, and aluminium, caused €120,000 in damages to the affected companies.
Operation Corbinas Uncovers Extensive Theft Ring
The Guardia Civil's Fraga station in Aragón started "Operation Corbinas" in October 2025. This followed multiple reports of thefts. Two businesses in the Baix Cinca region had reported significant losses. Investigators soon discovered similar crimes. These occurred in Tarragona and Barcelona provinces. The gang used the same methods in all locations. They targeted industrial sites and commercial premises.
The criminals typically scaled perimeter fences. They also broke access locks to enter premises. They operated on weekdays during working hours. The gang members often posed as legitimate workers. This allowed them to move large quantities of stolen metal undetected. The organised nature of their operations enabled them to transport the heavy materials efficiently.
Barcelona and Santa Coloma Residents Arrested
The Guardia Civil identified the criminal group's base. Its members resided in Catalonia. Specifically, they lived in Santa Coloma de Gramenet and Barcelona. Santa Coloma de Gramenet is a densely populated municipality in the Barcelona metropolitan area. The gang comprised seven men, one woman, and one minor. Their ages ranged from 17 to 67 years. These individuals face charges for seven counts of aggravated burglary. They also face two counts of theft.
The coordinated arrests took place in late March and early April 2026. The Guardia Civil collaborated with the Mossos d'Esquadra. Specifically, the Urban Delinquency Group (FURA) from L'Hospitalet de Llobregat assisted. L'Hospitalet de Llobregat is a major city bordering Barcelona. This joint effort led to the apprehension of the five suspects. The police operation aimed to dismantle the entire network.
Ongoing Investigation and Impact
Four additional individuals remain under investigation. Authorities have not released details about the nationality or criminal records of those arrested. This operation significantly impacts businesses. It helps to deter organised metal theft across the region. Businesses in Barcelona and surrounding areas can expect increased security.
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Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.
