13 arrested for the theft of 300 tons of clothing

The National Police have disbanded two organisations in Valencia, Alicante, and Castellón that stole clothing from charity bins. The operation resulted in the arrest of 13 suspects ranging in age from 28 to 58. They pretended to be employees of a social inclusion charity, using false keys and clothes.
Last year, more than 300 tonnes of clothing were stolen, resulting in financial losses of almost one million euros.

A logistics network for storing and selling stolen clothing

The investigation began following a complaint from the impacted foundation, which alleged multiple thefts in various areas. The suspects loaded the clothes into leased vans and transported them to industrial facilities in Ontinyent and Alzira. The items were stored, sorted, and packaged for later sale, including internationally.
During the searches, officers discovered industrial gear, altered keys, tonnes of apparel, and high-end automobiles. They also discovered eight unemployed workers, some of whom were undocumented, trying to hide behind the piles of garments.

The operation concluded with 13 arrests and 200,000 kilogrammes collected

The operation concluded with the collection of 200,000 kilogrammes of garments and the return of several tonnes to the impacted foundation. Those arrested face allegations including burglary, receiving stolen items, and, in the case of the leading merchant, a violation of workers’ rights.
One of the people arrested had a court order for jail. The inquiry was conducted in partnership with the Ontinyent and Alzira police stations.

Author: Derek Appleton