The criminal network was well organised and structured, specialising in the theft of fertilisers and pesticides, for instance. The action day in France and Romania targeted three teams of thieves, two carriers and two fences. Three suspects were arrested in France, and nine more were identified in Romania, based on EAWs issued by the French authorities.

Over the past two years, at least sixty farms, agricultural storage facilities and enterprises have been burgled. The value of the stolen goods and the damage caused by the thefts is estimated at EUR 3 million. The thefts were not without risk, as certain products were highly flammable and posed a health hazard if not handled properly. The stolen goods were transported and stored by the network for onward sale via illegal channels in Romania.

Investigations coordinated by the investigative judge of the Interregional Jurisdiction (JIRS) of Rennes in France indicated that a Romanian-led organised crime group was behind the large-scale thefts. In November of last year, the JIRS contacted the French National Desk at Eurojust to arrange for cooperation with the Romanian authorities. Following a coordination meeting at the Agency, joint actions in both countries were organised this week.

In Romania, 17 places were searched, where cash in different currencies was seized, estimated to be worth EUR 200 000. Four vehicles and various quantities of liquid and solid agrochemical products were also seized.

The coordinated action this week was carried out by and at the request of the following authorities:

• France: Investigative Judge JIRS Rennes; Gendarmerie Nationale – Section de Recherches Caen
• Romania: Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT); National Police – Criminal Investigations Directorate