A GANG accused of terrorising wealthy Marbella homeowners by posing as police officers has been smashed in a dramatic Policia Nacional raid.
The suspected criminals allegedly turned up at luxury properties dressed as bogus officers, wearing police-style uniforms, bulletproof vests and caps – and even using flashing blue lights to convince victims they were cops.
But their alleged crime spree came to an abrupt end when officers swooped on the gang in Marbella as they travelled in a van, just as they prepared to strike again.
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Inside the vehicle, police discovered a staggering haul of equipment allegedly used in the raids, including five handguns, tactical silencers, ammunition and a collection of fake police gear.
Officers also found bulletproof vests, handcuffs, uniforms, caps and emergency lights, along with €31,500 in cash, GPS trackers, signal jammers, cable ties and folded number plates – items investigators believe were used to carry out robberies and avoid detection.
The investigation began in December after two violent burglaries in Alicante raised alarm bells among detectives.
As they dug deeper, officers linked the same gang to two earlier armed robberies in Marbella, where they believe the group had built a network of support.
After months of surveillance, police discovered the suspects had returned to Marbella and moved in before they could allegedly launch another attack.
Raids were then carried out at four properties across Marbella and Fuengirola, where officers seized six luxury vehicles and further evidence believed to be linked to the crimes.
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The gang is accused of carrying out five violent robberies across Marbella and Alicante, targeting high-value items including jewellery, watches and other luxury goods worth an estimated €400,000.
Those arrested now face a string of serious allegations, including firearms offences, document forgery, assault, invasion of privacy, impersonating public officials and membership of a criminal organisation.
The investigation remains open, with Spanish authorities issuing two European Arrest Warrants for suspected gang members believed to be hiding outside Spain.
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