In a brazen operation that has shocked the local community, an international crime syndicate has allegedly stolen around 60 Toyota LandCruiser and Prado vehicles from the streets of Brisbane using sophisticated keyless technology. The thefts occurred between October 20 and December 1 last year, according to police reports.
The stolen vehicles, primarily family-oriented four-wheel-drives, were reportedly concealed in shipping containers and transported to the United Arab Emirates for sale. Detective Inspector Paul Dalton described the group as a “highly organised, well-disciplined and very sophisticated international syndicate” during a press briefing on Wednesday.
Complex Operation Spanning Multiple Countries
The syndicate allegedly involved seven men from Brazil, Fiji, Japan, and Afghanistan, who have been charged with a staggering 380 offences. These individuals are said to have entered Australia on valid visas, renting properties to facilitate their operations. The group utilized a high-tech device to bypass vehicle security systems, enabling them to start and drive away the cars without needing a key.
While the specifics of the technology remain undisclosed to prevent potential copycat crimes, the police have confirmed collaboration with Toyota in an attempt to counteract the syndicate’s methods. A breakthrough in the investigation occurred when a LandCruiser was observed entering a wrecking yard on Melbourne Street, Rocklea, leading police to a shipping container filled with hidden vehicles.
Why Brisbane?
The choice of Brisbane as the focal point for these thefts remains under investigation. Detective Acting Inspector Russell Joyce noted that the rationale behind targeting Brisbane is still unclear. Historically, Australia has been a significant market for the Toyota LandCruiser, which may have influenced the syndicate’s decision.
Police have successfully recovered 15 of the most recently stolen vehicles, some of which were traced to the Port of Melbourne. However, investigators have yet to determine whether these thefts are connected to a series of similar incidents across Victoria.
Financial Impact and Market Implications
The financial implications of these thefts are substantial. With the Toyota Prado starting at just over $70,000 and the LandCruiser at nearly $100,000 before on-road costs, the estimated value of the stolen vehicles is approximately $9 million. This represents a significant loss for the affected owners and highlights vulnerabilities in vehicle security systems.
“This was a highly organised, well-disciplined and very sophisticated international syndicate.” – Detective Inspector Paul Dalton
The incident underscores the need for heightened security measures and international cooperation in tackling vehicle theft. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging vehicle owners to remain vigilant and consider additional security enhancements.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing investigation aims to unravel the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and prevent future incidents. As police continue to piece together the puzzle, the case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of international crime and the importance of adaptive security strategies.
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