The Guardia Civil has arrested a man and a woman, both 38 years old, for allegedly committing six crimes in Malaga and Alicante using the “hug” approach. After appearing before a judge, they were ordered to be held in custody.
On May 1st in Calpe (Alicante), police from the investigation area of the town’s main post saw a suspicious car driving at a low speed. The vehicle’s occupants were particularly interested in older folks passing through the region.
Given these odd conditions, investigators checked the vehicle’s database and determined it was associated with previous crimes. They then identified the occupants, verifying that each had an arrest warrant for a robbery committed weeks earlier in Marbella, according to a Guardia Civil statement.
Key information concerning the arrest:
A 38-year-old man and woman were arrested for six crimes in Malaga and Alicante.
They employed the hugging approach to perpetrate crimes.
They have been linked to a violent robbery in Marbella.
The embrace technique is a frequent practice among organised crime groups.
A couple arrested for robbery with the hug method
While police were conducting the arrest, it was discovered that the same couple had committed a theft in Calpe, stealing two gold chains from a tourist by fondling and personal contact. A thorough examination linked them to four other similar events since April.
Significant economic damage
Several high-end watches were violently robbed in Jávea, Pilar de la Horadada, and Marbella. Jewellery and watches were also stolen in La Nucía, Calpe, and Pedreguer. The anticipated financial loss surpasses €140,000. Both detainees were taken before Denia Investigating Court No. 2 and sentenced to prison.
Criminal organisations’ methods of operation
The hug method is a popular tactic among organised travel groups.
They prefer elderly persons or those in vulnerable positions as their victims.
They distract their victims with phoney gestures of affection before stealing things.
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