Police Operation in Platja d’Aro
The Local Police of Platja d’Aro have carried out an operation that has allowed the dismantling of a network dedicated to the theft of mobile phones in various locations in Spain. The investigation began on January 10, when a theft was recorded in a large establishment in the area, with an estimated loss of 9,000 euros in devices.
Investigation and Interpolice Collaboration
Following this incident, officers began investigating other similar thefts that had occurred at the same appliance chain nationwide. Collaboration with other police forces proved key, as it allowed the arrest of one of the suspects in the Basque Country and another in Valencia.
Mode of Operation
The technique used by this gang was characterized by its precision. One of the members entered the establishment with the aim of disconnecting the security cables from the mobile phones, while an accomplice, with a bag covered in aluminum, took charge of the stolen devices, preventing the alarms from being activated.
Connections between Crimes
Three days after the robbery in Platja d’Aro, similar incidents were reported in Vilanova i la Geltrú, as well as in Lleida, with a total value of 10,000 euros in stolen goods. This led the Local Police to coordinate with the Mossos d’Esquadra to further investigate.
Arrests and Proceedings
After extensive investigations, an arrest warrant was requested for the two individuals involved. On January 30, the Ertzaintza arrested one of the suspects, who was involved in a similar robbery in the Basque Country. A few days later, the Guardia Civil arrested the second man in Valencia, with eight stolen mobile phones in his possession.
Profile of Offenders
Both arrested individuals are Romanian nationals with extensive criminal records. Their modus operandi included the use of communicators to maintain contact, as well as the weekly rotation of vehicles to make their identification difficult. Although they were based in Madrid, their activities often took them to Bucharest.
Strategies to Avoid Capture
In addition to the techniques used during the thefts, the gang implemented very careful logistics, constantly changing vehicles and using special bags to evade alarms. These strategies demonstrate a high degree of professionalism and organization among the members of the network.