**Leader of the “Hobbit” Gang, Known as “El Coketo,” Faces Legal Proceedings for Hyundai Theft Ring**
A man identified as Alex, also known as “El Coketo,” alleged leader of the criminal group dubbed “the Hobbit,” has been formally charged after a vigorous four-month investigation linked him to a series of vehicle thefts. Authorities in Mexico have connected El Coketo to the theft of numerous Hyundai vehicles, which were stolen before having their serial numbers altered for resale in regions such as Mexicali, Tijuana, and Ensenada.
This notorious gang has been under the police radar for about a year. They primarily targeted Hyundai and Kia models due to their perceived lower security features. During the extensive investigation, conducted by the Vehicle Theft Agency, West Division, and the Ministerial Police Command, authorities compiled evidence leading to El Coketo’s arrest last week. Alongside him, several other gang members, including individuals known by nicknames like Rohobbit, Jara, and Chikis, have also been detained.
The gang was known to operate with a high degree of organization and strategy. They networked with various accomplices to divide tasks for vehicle theft and resale, often deceiving buyers into purchasing stolen vehicles. Many victims only realized the vehicles were stolen after they had paid a significant amount.
Authorities managed to link the Hobbit gang to roughly 80% of the Hyundai and Kia thefts in Mexicali. Their suspicions suggest that numerous stolen vehicles might still be circulating undetected. El Coketo is now in preventive custody and will face additional charges related to each theft incident.
**Secondary Article: Continued Efforts Against Auto-Theft Rings in Baja California**
In a broader crackdown against vehicle theft in Baja California, authorities continue to make strides in dismantling organized crime groups. A recent operation led to the arrest of multiple suspects believed to be part of a network shielding auto thieves. These efforts are part of an ongoing strategy to reduce the crime rate and improve public safety in the region.
Earlier this month, a group of armed men stormed a vehicle storage facility in Mexicali, making off with six vehicles in a bold theft. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies in Ensenada are probing accusations against four public security officers suspected of colluding with murderers.
Despite facing a complex web of criminal activities, authorities are steadfast in their mission to protect residents and ensure justice. With new leadership in Tijuana’s security sector, it is anticipated that local law enforcement will implement more robust security measures and continue pressuring these criminal networks.