_2013.jpg){kind=link}
Three women aged 41, 44 and 47 have been arrested by the National Police in the center of Valencia after being caught trying to flee with stolen objects from a Swiss tourist. The arrested women, investigated as alleged perpetrators of a theft crime, are part of a traveling criminal network of Romanian origin that mainly operates in tourist-heavy areas. Their modus operandi consisted of choosing visitors as victims, taking advantage of the crowded central area of the city to commit the robberies. The operation took place at the beginning of September, as part of a theft prevention operation coordinated by the Central District Police Station.
The authorities had identified the women the day before and managed to prevent them from committing new crimes. However, the next day, the suspects returned to the scene with an evasive attitude that alerted the agents. Upon detecting the police presence, they tried to flee, but were intercepted in time. During the search, the police discovered that the loot had been hidden in their underwear, a tactic used to avoid being discovered.
Among the seized effects were 738 euros and 200 Swiss francs, three mobile phones, personal documents and bank cards in the name of a Swiss citizen. In addition, accessories such as hats and sunglasses, tools they used to camouflage themselves among tourists and go unnoticed were seized. After managing with the Swiss Consulate, the goods were returned to their rightful owner, who had been the victim of a robbery in the middle of the street.
The investigation continues open to determine if the detainees are linked to other thefts that occurred in the city. The National Police has highlighted that these arrests are the result of constant preventive work, key to protecting visitors in crowded public spaces. The case also highlights the importance of coordination between law enforcement forces and consular representations for the recovery of stolen belongings.
The three women remain under custody while the final investigations are being carried out. The incident has generated some concern among tourists, who have been advised to be extra vigilant with their belongings in areas of high traffic. The operation reinforces the need to keep surveillance devices active in the most vulnerable points of the city, especially during periods of high visitor flow.