Police said yesterday that they have smashed a gang of thieves that broke into more than 300 cars in Athens, stealing documents and various valuables.

Three men, a 47-year-old Greek and two Chileans aged 43 and 30 have been arrested and officers are looking for two or three more suspects, possibly Spanish nationals.

The suspects began renting cars last summer and driving them to beaches southeast and northeast of Athens, where they would break into the vehicles of bathers while they were swimming. The gang also dealt in stolen driving licenses and other documents, which they sold on the black market.

During this period, the suspects are also alleged to have broken into the cars of two policemen, taking the officers' service revolvers and handcuffs. In total, the gang stole from 317 vehicles. The suspects have not been named.