According to Marca, Catalan police announced on Monday that the Mossos d'Esquadra have dismantled a criminal gang in Gavà, Barcelona province. The gang had been specializing in violent home invasions and robberies across several municipalities in Catalonia since early 2024, primarily targeting "high-profile individuals," including footballers.

The operation took place on October 1st, resulting in the arrest of two men aged 58 and 42, and a 46-year-old woman. The three are linked to at least eight incidents in locations including Castelldefels (two cases), El Papiol, Sant Vicenç de Montalt, Cubelles, Peralada, Sant Pere de Ribes, and Agullana.

According to La Vanguardia and police sources who confirmed the details to EFE, one of the most prominent cases was the robbery at the home of Barcelona goalkeeper Iñaki Peña. On January 10th, two men broke into the residence he shares with his partner in a town in the Baix Llobregat region of Barcelona province.

Investigators also determined that the same gang had surveilled the home of teammate Jules Koundé and prepared to rob it, though that action was ultimately not carried out.

Two of the three arrested individuals were turned over to judicial authorities the day after their arrest. The three have a combined total of over 30 prior arrests, many of which are related to property crimes.

Possible cases outside Catalonia

The investigation initially focused on a series of home invasions across Catalonia that shared a similar modus operandi. These cases involved similar target selection and methods, all pointing to the homes of "high-profile individuals."

Investigators then identified a long-active gang. This group frequently rented cars for their operations and would surveil victims to observe their routines and home security situations before acting.

As the investigation revealed connections to other cases and the suspects' high mobility, police believe the gang may also be involved in home invasions in other parts of Spain. The investigation is ongoing, and further criminal acts may still be uncovered.

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