Schengen Zone Exploited by Itinerant Crime Groups

Schengen Travel Facilitates Itinerant Crime

Colombian and European criminal gangs are exploiting the Schengen Zone's border-free travel to commit thefts across multiple countries before fleeing. These groups, often operating in small cells, take advantage of the 90-day visa-free access granted to tourists to carry out their crimes.

How the Criminal Groups Operate

The criminals typically:

• Enter Europe through Spain or another Schengen country
• Move freely across borders to avoid detection
• Target banks, jewelry stores, and vulnerable individuals
• Use distraction techniques rather than violent methods
• Flee before authorities can apprehend them

Challenges for Law Enforcement

Police face significant difficulties tracking these groups due to:

• Their constant movement across multiple countries
• The use of false documentation in some cases
• Lack of permanent residence in any one location
• High rates of recidivism among offenders

European Criminal Networks

The problem extends beyond Colombian groups to include:

• Romanian gangs specializing in distraction thefts
• Italian and Eastern European groups targeting homes
• Seasonal spikes in burglaries during holiday periods

Authorities estimate at least a dozen active criminal cells operating in Madrid alone, with the true number likely higher due to the transient nature of these groups.