An organised criminal network targeting luxury vehicles in Brisbane has been dismantled by police following a sophisticated, two-month investigation. The syndicate is accused of stealing sixty cars, primarily Toyota LandCruisers and Prados, with a combined value of approximately $8 million.
The High-Tech Heist Operation
The spate of thefts occurred between October 20 and December 1, with thieves allegedly making off with around two vehicles per day. Investigators believe the group used a specialised electronic device known as a CAN Injector to compromise the vehicles' computer systems.
This readily available tool was plugged into the car's wiring, allowing malicious code to be deployed. The code effectively bypassed security, enabling the thieves to unlock doors and start the engines without needing the keys. The operation was brazen, with CCTV footage capturing some thefts being completed in mere minutes.
International Links and Arrests
Queensland Police allege that a group of foreign nationals flew into Brisbane in October specifically to carry out the heist. The stolen vehicles were then prepared for shipment overseas, with the United Arab Emirates identified as the intended destination for profit.
Following extensive work by local and national authorities, seven foreign nationals believed to be central to the operation have been arrested. They face a staggering more than 300 offences collectively.
Among them, two men aged 44 and 40 have each been charged with 60 counts of stealing a vehicle and six counts of attempted stealing. Both are scheduled to reappear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on January 27.
Vehicle Recovery and Community Assurance
While some vehicles are believed to have left Australian waters, police have successfully intercepted many. Fifteen of the most recently stolen cars were recovered from locations including a Rocklea wrecking yard, the Port of Brisbane, and the Port of Melbourne. Some were discovered hidden behind façades of disassembled vehicle parts.
South Brisbane District Detective Inspector Paul Dalton stated that investigators worked tirelessly to identify and apprehend those responsible. He emphasised the impact of such crimes, saying, "Offences of this nature are brazen and can cause significant disruption to our community's feeling of safety."
Detective Inspector Dalton offered reassurance to the public: "There'd been no offences of this nature since the first arrests were made on December 2, and the community can rest assured that this syndicate no longer poses an ongoing threat to them." The investigation continues to explore the group's international connections.
MOCS Brisbane Detective Acting Inspector Russell Joyce praised the collaborative effort, calling it an "extremely complex operation." He added that the Queensland Police Service is sending a strong message that such offences will not be tolerated. Police are continuing to work closely with Toyota Australia as the investigation proceeds.
