Dutch, French, and German police forces arrested three members of a notorious criminal network responsible for a series of violent attacks on ATMs across Europe.
The coordinated operation occurred in the early hours of October 16, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against organized crime.
Europol played a crucial role in facilitating collaboration among the involved countries, leading to the successful apprehension of the suspects.
Cross-Border Operation
The arrests were part of an extensive action day conducted simultaneously in multiple locations across the Netherlands, France, and Germany.
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Law enforcement agencies also targeted car rental companies whose vehicles criminals had used to flee crime scenes.
This network was among the first to exploit locations in France as hideouts and utilize getaway cars rented from French companies.
The raids yielded substantial evidence, aiding investigations into other members and supporters of the gang.
The criminal network has been linked to numerous attacks on cash machines using powerful explosives, primarily sourced from fireworks.
These attacks have not only resulted in millions of euros being looted but have also caused significant property damage.
Often based in the Netherlands, the perpetrators operate recklessly, posing severe risks to public safety and infrastructure. Their high-speed escapes through residential areas further endanger lives and property.
Enhanced International Cooperation
Law enforcement agencies from the affected countries have strengthened their cross-border collaboration to combat this growing threat.
Europol’s involvement was instrumental in bringing together Dutch, French, and German investigators to develop a comprehensive intelligence picture and coordinate the operation.
A Europol specialist was deployed to the coordination center with a mobile office to cross-check operational results against Europol’s extensive databases.
This successful operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling organized crime.
By dismantling this criminal network, authorities have disrupted a significant source of financial crime and enhanced public safety across Europe.
The investigation continues as law enforcement seeks to identify and apprehend additional members of this dangerous gang.
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