Spain Highway Theft Alert: Protect Your Vehicle on AP-7

Moroccans residing abroad who drive through Spain must remain vigilant. The AP-7, a heavily used route toward southern Spain and embarkation ports to Morocco, remains monitored by authorities due to thefts targeting motorists, particularly at gas stations and rest areas.

On Bladi.net : Road Trip Danger: Moroccan Travelers Face Theft Epidemic on Spanish Highways

A recent example was revealed by Cadena SER. The Guardia Civil arrested four men, aged 35 to 45, suspected of belonging to a criminal group specializing in thefts at AP-7 service areas. The incidents reportedly occurred in several provinces heavily frequented by travelers: Castellón, Valencia, Alicante, and Murcia.

According to the investigation, dubbed "Operación Apertura," the suspects circulated at night with two vehicles, one of which was used for thefts. The cars were registered in the names of third parties to complicate their identification. Before acting, group members inspected service areas to identify vehicles and verify police presence.

Quick thefts in service areas

The modus operandi was simple and effective. The thieves used candle fragments to break car windows in a single blow, before quickly seizing personal belongings left inside. The Guardia Civil attributes sixteen thefts with breaking and entering into vehicles, two thefts with violence and intimidation, as well as document forgery and membership in a criminal group.

During searches conducted in Torrevieja, in the province of Alicante, investigators found jewelry, money from several countries, and other objects suspected of coming from the thefts. Two high-end vehicles were also seized. In the cars used by the suspects, agents discovered gloves, flashlights, knives, screwdrivers, defense spray, a candle, and two golf clubs.

Other techniques are also reported, such as the flat tire trick, which consists of forcing a motorist to stop before stealing bags, documents, phones, or money.

MREs are not necessarily targeted as Moroccans, but they are among the motorists exposed during summer. Many drive through Spain with loaded vehicles, travel documents, cash, and sometimes children on board. A simple stop can then become risky if luggage or valuables remain visible.

Authorities recommend never leaving bags, phones, documents, or wallets visible in the car, even for a few minutes. In case of a suspicious flat tire or an unknown person offering help, it is advised to remain cautious, go to a frequented place, and call law enforcement if in doubt.

On Bladi.net : Guardia Civil Busts Romanian Gang Targeting Moroccan Travelers in Spain’s Palmones Heist Ring

For families taking the road to Morocco, the instruction is clear: systematically lock the vehicle, keep important documents on you, avoid isolated stops, and monitor your surroundings in service areas.