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The Guardia Civil in the Region of Murcia has concluded Operation ‘Wooden’ , an investigation into the disappearance of 644 wooden pallets rented out by multiple companies. The pallets, valued at over €10,000, were found and recovered from an industrial warehouse in Santomera (Murcia).
The SEPRONA unit (Nature Protection Service) of the Guardia Civil has launched an investigation into the owner of the business, where the pallets were discovered. He is accused of misappropriation for failing to return the pallets to their rightful owners.
This investigation falls within SEPRONA’s scope of monitoring the management of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
Several pallet rental companies had reported financial losses, stating that their rented goods were not returned. The pallets were easily identified by branded markings and distinctive paint colours.
SEPRONA officers traced the missing pallets to a warehouse involved in buying, selling, and repairing pallets in Santomera. An inspection revealed 3,700 pallets, 644 of which bore the identifying marks of the reporting companies. The warehouse owner could not provide rental contracts or documentation to justify legal possession.
Investigators also confirmed that the company lacked authorization for non-hazardous waste management (recovery of wooden pallets) and had no municipal license to operate, leading to the seizure of the remaining pallets.
Furthermore, it was discovered that untreated wooden boards, lacking phytosanitary treatment, were used in pallet repairs. This treatment, required by international standards, prevents the spread of wood-borne pests. Untreated wood is cheaper, allowing for higher profits, but poses environmental risks.
Operation ‘Wooden’ has concluded with the suspect under investigation for misappropriation of property.
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