Warning for Moroccans traveling on Spanish highways (Mossos d’Esquadra)

A worrying increase in robberies on the AP-7 motorway in Catalonia is causing growing concern. Organised gangs are mainly targeting motorists who pull over on the side of the road, including Moroccans and other foreign travellers. The local police, known as the “Mossos d’Esquadra”, have responded by launching a preventative campaign to inform and protect drivers.

Organized thefts: specific targets

Criminals are particularly targeting tourists and Ukrainians fleeing the war, as well as members of the Moroccan community. This has prompted authorities to step up their prevention efforts. Since April, police have installed warning signs along the AP-7, alerting drivers to potential dangers. The signs, which are multilingual, deliver messages such as: “Beware of foreigners, thefts on the highway” and “If your tire is flat, it could be a trap.”

A well-honed criminal strategy

The months of January to July 2024 saw the arrest of 108 suspects on this motorway, 83 of whom were directly involved in robberies using the “flat tyre” method. This ruse consists of simulating a flat tyre to encourage drivers to stop, thus providing an opportunity for thieves to act. The majority of the arrested criminals come from gangs, often of Balkan nationality, living in Catalonia. Some of them have a long criminal past, with more than 40 offences to their name.

Despite these arrests and the significant drop in the number of incidents compared to the previous year, the threat remains present. The police therefore continue to urge motorists, especially foreigners, to be extra vigilant when using this highway.

An effective but necessary preventive campaign

Thanks to the awareness campaign launched by the police, many thefts have been prevented, and drivers are increasingly aware of the dangers. However, criminals are adapting quickly, which requires a constant level of caution. Motorway rest areas, particularly frequented by transit travellers, are popular locations for these organised gangs. These thieves primarily target motorists alone or in small groups, often believing that they are transporting valuables.

Authorities stress the importance of never accepting help from strangers in such situations, and of contacting the police immediately if in doubt. Vigilance and caution are essential to avoid becoming a victim of these crimes.

With these continued efforts and the cooperation of drivers, authorities hope to further reduce the number of thefts on the AP-7. However, it is crucial for all motorists, and especially Moroccans traveling to Spain, to remain constantly on their guard.

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