Police conducted 11 searches in Olt and Dolj in a copper theft case involving damage estimated at €350,000

Romanian and Austrian police conducted 11 searches on October 29, 2026, in Olt and Dolj counties, in a case involving copper theft with estimated damage of approximately €350,000. The investigation concerns six people aged between 21 and 33, suspected of committing burglaries in several European countries.

The operation was coordinated by the Olt Prosecutor’s Office attached to the Olt Tribunal, based on a European Investigation Order issued by the Korneuburg Prosecutor’s Office in Austria. The searches took place in the municipality of Slatina and in the communes of Iancu Jianu and Malu Mare. Investigators seized several items of evidence.

According to prosecutors, between February and July 2026, the suspects allegedly stole quantities of copper from commercial companies, including by using stolen vehicles. The investigation data indicate possible similar offenses in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

The Korneuburg Tribunal issued four European arrest warrants. Two of those targeted are to be brought before the Craiova Court of Appeal, while proceedings will be initiated to place the other two, who were not found, on the wanted list. The investigation continues in accordance with the presumption of innocence.