The authorities in Austria announced the dismantling of a transnational network of Romanian citizens specialized in copper theft.

Austrian authorities have managed to dismantle a transnational network of Romanian copper thieves, active for several years and responsible for damages of approximately 250,000 euros. The investigation, coordinated by police from the Burgenland Inspectorate, received support from colleagues in Styria and was conducted intensively. The group focused on thefts from buildings owned by Austrian companies, extracting large quantities of copper, which they transported abroad. The thieves were well-prepared for border checks, hiding the stolen goods under blankets and household items to avoid suspicion.

The investigation led to the arrest of five leaders of the group in Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands, and the most recent suspect has been extradited to Austria. So far, the group has been involved in 12 burglaries in six Austrian states, and authorities emphasize the significant impact of these crimes on the local economy.