Australian police bust an international ring that stole 60 Toyota Land Cruiser and Prado SUVs. Read the full story and protect your vehicle now.
Queensland police announced a major breakthrough in an international crime syndicate that targeted high‑end Toyota Land Cruiser and Prado SUVs. The operation, dubbed “Operation Xray Lox,” has led to the arrest of seven men from Brazil, Fiji, Japan and Afghanistan, and the recovery of dozens of stolen vehicles.
How the theft ring operated
From October 20 to December 1, 2024, the group stole an estimated 60 luxury SUVs across the Brisbane area. The total value of the missing vehicles tops AUD 8 million (approximately US$5.3 million). Investigators say the thieves loaded the stolen Land Cruiser LC250 (known locally as the Prado) and the newer LC300 into shipping containers at a dismantling yard in Rocklea before moving them to the ports of Brisbane and Melbourne.
The plan was to ship the vehicles abroad, primarily to the United Arab Emirates, where they could be sold on the black market for a hefty profit.
Police takedown
Operation Xray Lox was launched in mid‑November 2025 by the Major and Organized Crime Squad (MOCSB) in collaboration with local detectives. The task force tracked the movement of the SUVs, seized 15 stolen vehicles at various locations and raided a container depot where the criminals were preparing the next shipment.
All seven suspects, aged 28‑45, are now facing more than 300 charges ranging from vehicle theft to organized crime offences. They were caught with hard evidence that they entered Queensland solely to pilfer the popular Toyota models and export them.
Legal proceedings and next steps
The case is scheduled for a hearing at the Brisbane Magistrates Court later this month. Queensland Police are continuing to work closely with Toyota Australia to investigate any remaining links to the network and to prevent future incidents.
Why this matters
This is one of the largest organized vehicle‑theft cases recorded in the region in recent years. It highlights the growing risk to high‑value SUVs and underscores the importance of robust security measures for owners and dealerships alike.
If you own a luxury SUV, consider adding GPS tracking, steering wheel locks, and ensuring your vehicle is parked in well‑lit, monitored areas. Staying informed about local crime trends can also help you protect your investment.