Gardaí seize 18 BMWs and man arrested in scam probe

One man has been arrested and 18 BMW cars have been seized by gardaí investigating a scam in Dublin involving luxury cars.

It is suspected that the sizes of the cars’ engines were understated in declarations to Motor Tax Offices in an attempt to pay lower tax rates on the vehicles.

A variance on the cars’ declared engine sizes would also have implications for the cost of insurance premiums on the vehicles.

Gardaí said that, while this initial stage of the operation involved 18 BMW cars, the scam involves more luxury cars from a wide range of manufacturers.

The Garda Press Office refused to confirm or deny reports that the total fraud amounted to more than €2m.

One man was arrested and appeared at the Criminal Courts of Justice on Tuesday, where he was charged with fraud and theft offences.

He has beenremanded on continuing bail to appear at the same court on April 21.

The Dublin Metropolitan Region Traffic Division carried out an investigation over the last number of weeks, culminating in the seizure of 11 cars last Saturday, four the next day, and another three on Tuesday.

Each of the cars will now be examined by the Public Service Vehicle Inspector, and gardaí will liaise closely with the Department of Environment in terms of motor tax and Customs and Excise in regards to having the vehicle tested for illegal diesel.

Gardaí will also liaise with the insurance companies, as the scam raises issues in relation to the validity of insurance on the cars.

Another issue of the concern is the safety of the vehicles due to possible modifications of the engine and loss of revenue to the state in terms of road tax.

Gardaí appealed to those involved to immediately regularise the situation with their local tax office, insurance company and An Garda Síochana, and warned that their current insurance may not be valid.

“An Garda Síochana would also remind people purchasing cars to ensure that the Vehicle Licensing Certificate reflects the correct engine size. Motorists engaging in this type of activity are advised that they are open to having their vehicle detained and being prosecuted in court,” the Garda Press Office said.

Gardaí have advised members of the public who may be concerned about buying second-hand cars to consult the Garda website, garda.ie, for advice.