In a significant operation dubbed 'Operación Caba', the Local Police of O Porriño in the province of Pontevedra, Spain, successfully dismantled a large gathering of vehicles involved in illegal racing and dangerous driving maneuvers. The operation, which took place on the night of October 13, 2024, was a response to the escalating safety concerns in the area.
Background and Detection
The police had been monitoring the situation for several weeks, noting an increase in the number of vehicles and participants gathering in the Oceanis-Cataboi industrial park on Saturday nights. Initially, these gatherings were described as simple meetups, but they gradually evolved into illegal racing and perilous driving stunts, including doughnuts and sudden accelerations. These activities posed a grave risk to the safety of nearly a thousand people present.
The Operation
The 'Operación Caba' was coordinated by the 1st Instance and Instruction Court of O Porriño and was named in honor of the late local police officer Manuel Cabaleiro Martínez. The operation involved a comprehensive police deployment, including the use of drones and other technical means to document the infractions.
At 00:55 hours on October 13, the police unexpectedly closed all access points to the industrial park, funneling the vehicles through a single exit where thorough inspections were conducted. This strategic move allowed the authorities to identify and apprehend those involved in the illegal activities.
Consequences and Findings
As a result of the operation, five drivers were investigated for allegedly committing crimes against road safety, specifically for reckless driving. Additionally, nine individuals faced administrative charges, which included fines of 500 euros and the loss of six points from their driving licenses.
The inspections revealed over 20 infractions against the General Vehicle Regulations, as well as cases of driving without insurance and without wearing seatbelts. Notably, the vehicles involved ranged from cars over 20 years old to modern vehicles, and even included a funeral car, highlighting the reckless nature of the participants.
Legal Proceedings
The individuals under investigation were summoned to appear before the 1st Instance and Instruction Court of O Porriño. Four of them accepted the prison sentence and the revocation of their driving permits as requested by the Public Prosecutor's Office, while one case remains pending with the defendant awaiting a court appearance with their designated lawyer.
Broader Implications
The authorities have indicated that such gatherings and illegal racing activities are not isolated to O Porriño but are also occurring in other municipalities within the region and even in neighboring countries. Organizers of these events have been implementing surveillance measures to detect police presence, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and enforcement.
This operation serves as a strong message from the authorities to deter such dangerous and illegal activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
