The stolen catalytic converters put the suspects in clumps for later collection. Handing it in to a metalworking company yields about 200 to 300 euros, according to the police.
The men presumably worked in different configurations, often at night, moving in ever-changing vehicles and frequently changing places of residence. This wandering, so-called mobile banditry, made it difficult for the police to catch the men.
The Bulgarians eventually came into the picture through a suspect who was arrested at the end of January and a theft on April 4. The men were arrested early Friday morning after being hit in Helmond, the police said on Saturday. Tools for the theft were found in the car.
Police do not rule out arresting more people.