Man arrested for stealing jewellery from elderly women using the snatch method

Within the scope of Operation Passatben, the Guardia Civil has solved two robberies with violence and intimidation, as well as one theft by snatching, committed in the cities of Rafal, Granja de Rocamora, and Bigastro.

The investigation began last May, when a woman said that while strolling down a street in Rafal, a man approached her and violently stole a gold necklace from her, causing her injuries.

One month later, in June, another woman claimed a similar event in Granja de Rocamora. In this example, a hefty man attempted to steal her chain with a forceful tug, ultimately shattering it. Despite being hurt, the victim’s calls for help eventually thwarted the heist.

That same month, in the town of Bigastro, another woman claimed a fresh event with nearly identical circumstances.

Modus operandi

In all cases, the culprit acted during the day, targeting older women wearing gold jewellery, approaching them suddenly and using violence when needed. The suspect’s physical description matched every account.

Given the gravity of the situation, the Investigation Department of the Callosa de Segura Main Post launched Operation Passatben. Officers discovered that the same criminal was engaged in all three attacks after conducting an extensive investigation of the mode of operation and evidence.

The suspect, who lived in Beniel, was identified thanks to witness recordings and participation from the Guardia Civil Posts of Beniel (Murcia) and Jacarilla.

Detention

On August 1st, contact with Guardia Civil units in the Region of Murcia revealed that the suspect was being held at the Santomera Main Post for reasons unconnected to the investigation. Officers responded quickly to the scene to charge him with the crimes under investigation.

The detainee was placed under the jurisdiction of the Duty Court of the Judicial District of Murcia, which ordered his provisional incarceration.

The operation is still underway, and it is possible that other victims will emerge. The Guardia Civil has expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation and the coordination of the many units that allowed these crimes to be solved.

Author: Derek Appleton