According to the police, the gang comprised four Arab expatriates and a Saudi national, who stole cars, dismantled them and had the dissembled car parts sold in cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Hail.

It was alleged that the thieves had also sold rented cars to innocent customers after changing their engine numbers and color.

After receiving several complaints about car thefts, the criminal investigation department had formed a team to follow the suspected members of the gang. A 24-hour surveillance on the suspects rendered vital clues to apprehend them.

Police said the members of the gang jointly ran the workshop, where they brought stolen cars, wrecked vehicles and rented cars. Some vehicles were dismantled and resold as spares, while others were modified and sold after illegal transfer of ownership.

The police statement did not reveal the exact location of the workshop in the city.

Although the suspects confessed to the charges, police said they were still conducting investigations to find out whether more people were involved in the ring.

According to the confession, the thieves have dismantled 135 vehicles during their operation.

On completion of inquiry, the police will produce the suspects before a court in Riyadh.