Investigations into the thefts started when authorities noticed a rise in the number of stolen agricultural GPS devices in the Occitanie region of France. The valuable devices are installed on equipment such as tractors. By tracking the teams of thieves behind the thefts and the export routes used for the equipment, investigators uncovered a mobile criminal network originating from Lithuania.

To start working with investigators from Lithuania, close cooperation was set up through Eurojust. Prosecutors working on the investigation came together with the Agency in The Hague to plan an action day to arrest suspects and seize evidence and assets. Eurojust also ensured that several European Investigation Orders and European Arrest Warrants could be executed. Europol delivered essential coordination and analytical support, unifying various investigative units engaged in the case. Leveraging its analytical expertise, Europol identified and connected related cases, strengthening the overall investigative process and ultimately leading to the exposure of a significant fencing network.

During the action day, French and Lithuanian authorities worked together in Lithuania. Four individuals were arrested, and large sums of money and other valuable items such as jewellery were seized during the searches. The authorities also found phones, as well as GPS equipment and tools used for the thefts. A number of witnesses were interviewed in Lithuania, providing more information in the modus operandi of the thieves. Another suspect was arrested in France during earlier actions taken.

The actions were carried out by the following authorities:

• France: JIRS Bordeaux (Interregional Specialized Jurisdiction); Gendarmerie Nationale
• Lithuania: Public Prosecutor’s Offices of Panevezys, Kaunas, Klaipeda and Siauliai; Police authorities