Australian authorities have successfully dismantled an alleged international crime network linked to the theft of dozens of Toyota vehicles in Brisbane. Among those accused is a suspect reportedly from Fiji, highlighting the transnational nature of the operation.
According to reports, the investigation was prompted by a noticeable increase in Toyota thefts late last year. Police describe the operation as highly organized, targeting specific high-value models such as Land Cruisers and Prados. It is alleged that seven men from Japan, Brazil, Fiji, and Afghanistan arrived in Brisbane in October and managed to steal around 60 vehicles between October 20 and December 1.
The stolen cars were reportedly packed into shipping containers intended for export to the United Arab Emirates, with experts estimating the group could have profited approximately AUD $9 million from the crimes. The operation began to unravel on December 2 when two stolen Land Cruisers were driven into a wrecking yard in Rocklea, prompting police to declare the site a crime scene. Investigators subsequently discovered vehicles concealed in containers hidden behind disassembled car parts. Further searches revealed more stolen vehicles at the Port of Brisbane and Port of Melbourne.
As of now, only 15 of the stolen Toyotas have been recovered, with many believed to have already made their way to the UAE. The seven accused, aged between 28 and 45, face over 300 charges. They legally entered Australia and allegedly employed a fast and sophisticated method to steal vehicles without the original keys.
Authorities continue to investigate the origins of the group and any broader connections they may have. Shipping companies facilitating the transport of the containers are not considered to be involved in any wrongdoing. This operation’s successful intervention by law enforcement underlines the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and protect property against theft.
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