After catching 35 fugitives from different countries in the last year, the National Police are thinking about making changes to the creative operation called “Operation Teddy Bear.” These people are suspected of sexually assaulting youngsters, and the experience acquired shows that most of the victims are related to or near to the people being pursued.
One of the most recent arrests, which happened on October 10th in Fuenlabrada (Madrid), showed this pattern. The 28-year-old man who was caught sexually attacked a young woman with an intellectual disability in Peru. It found out that she was his partner’s sister. The attacker gave her candy and they watched movies together to persuade her to trust him.
Fernando González, chief of the National Police’s Fugitive Location division, says, “They usually try to blend in by living normal lives and not being noticed.” He also says that “most of the victims are from their own families and friends.”
Working together and being patient
The 35 people arrested in Spain as part of “Operation Teddy Bear” for offences related to sexual assaults against children are between the ages of 20 and over 60.
The police officer stresses that “Success depends on cooperation and patience,” adding that the fugitive’s whereabouts may become easier to find over time, as he may relax and “make a mistake” that leads to his apprehension.
Police instruments and working together with citizens
Fernando González also talks about how important it is for citizens to work together to solve these cases. “Sometimes an anonymous call solves a case,” he says, stressing the importance of public help.
It also shows how useful the instruments that the Police have are, such the fugitive locating network and the provincial contact points, which help them start and run searches for fugitives more quickly.
Results and balance for 2025
In 2025, the National Police have found 463 fugitives, both in Spain and overseas. This is the most arrests they have ever made. “The message is that we are not a safe haven for fugitives,” the official said.
These results show that working together with the police and the community is a good way to find those who are wanted by the court system, especially in situations of sexual crimes against kids.
Author: Derek Appleton
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