In a large-scale security operation, Moroccan authorities announced today the arrest of 17 suspects, including four civil servants, as part of an investigation into an organized theft of vehicles and electronic devices stored at the municipal garage in Oujda.
The arrests took place on Tuesday, November 11, following precise information provided by the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, leading to raids in several locations in the eastern region.
According to available details, the detainees are suspected of being part of a criminal gang specializing in the theft of cars, electric motorcycles, and electronic devices deposited in public storage.
### Details of the Organized Crime
Initial investigations revealed complex methods used by the suspects to carry out their operations. After stealing vehicles from the municipal garage, they allegedly forged original license plates or dismantled cars for spare parts to sell in informal scrap and junk markets.
These operations went beyond mere theft, extending to additional accusations including embezzlement of public funds, misappropriation of property, breach of trust, and forgery of official documents.
Among the arrested individuals is the head of the municipal garage itself, alongside three other employees from the same facility.
### Security Measures and Seizures
Search operations resulted in a significant seizure of stolen property, including:
– 10 complete cars.
– 17 motorcycles.
– 38 dismantled car bodies.
– A wide range of spare parts and electronic devices.
Twelve of the suspects are subject to police custody, while the others are undergoing immediate judicial inquiry under the supervision of the relevant public prosecutor’s office. These measures aim to uncover all circumstances surrounding the case, including the identification of broader criminal networks and associated actions.
This operation represents a significant blow to organized crime networks in the eastern region, where vehicle theft and the illegal trade of spare parts have emerged as major security challenges in recent years. With an increase in reported cases, authorities reaffirm their commitment to enhancing oversight of public storage facilities and activating partnerships between judicial police and relevant entities to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
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