Alicante police dismantle fraudulent vehicle export network

Tuesday 24 February 2026 - 17:30

By: Sahili Aya

Alicante police dismantle fraudulent vehicle export network

Spanish authorities announced on Monday the dismantling of a structured network involved in the fraudulent re-export of vehicles from Spain to third countries, following an investigation that began on November 19, 2025, under customs control procedures.

Six individuals, aged between 32 and 45, were arrested for document forgery. The investigation, led by the UDAIFF - Fiscal and Border Investigation Unit of the port of Alicante, started after authorities noticed a “significant increase in vehicles with temporary plates during loading operations to Algeria,” according to an official statement.

Officers quickly detected discrepancies in the documents. Initial checks revealed irregularities in the administrative traceability of several private vehicles. Further investigation confirmed the falsification of invoices and official certificates intended to hide the true origin of the cars.

Evidence suggested that the vehicles had been stolen in Morocco and brought into Europe, where their documentation was altered to simulate legal provenance before being shipped to Algeria.

The operation led to the seizure of seven vehicles of various brands and models, which were immobilized prior to shipping and placed under judicial custody. The cars will be returned to their rightful owners after the completion of legal procedures.

The Guardia Civil emphasized the importance of document and customs controls in national ports and stressed the need for enhanced international cooperation to combat fraud and illicit vehicle trafficking. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to legal security in foreign trade and the protection of citizens’ property.