alert the police
The Alicante protection court reported that a 39-year-old man was arrested by the National Police after a violent robbery near a hospital. The incident left a 70-year-old woman injured as she entered the General Hospital parking area on foot. The suspect, identified as a drug addict, was shortly located after the robbery and taken into custody following a police operation. The victim narrowly avoided a worse outcome as the attack occurred near a stairwell.
The confrontation happened around noon last Monday at the pedestrian entrance to the hospital’s parking facility. Security cameras captured the moment of the assault: the thief tracked the woman from a short distance, moved inside the lot, and then suddenly attacked from behind, forcing her to release her bag with a forceful tug.
The 70-year-old staggered after the robbery and fell to the ground just a few steps from the stairs. She rose with some difficulty, seeking assistance as there were no staff members nearby at the entrance at that moment.
police alert and response
Security personnel notified the National Police, which dispatched patrols to verify the event and to identify the assailant. The victim received medical attention at the hospital, while authorities quickly linked the offender to a lengthy criminal record that includes violent robberies and thefts, among other offenses.
Patrols located the suspect in the Virgen del Carmen neighborhood with the assistance of the Alicante Northern District Police Station Operational Response Group and the Provincial Citizens’ Security Brigade Prevention and Response Unit. The suspect was found near a drug outlet. Despite statements of innocence, officers recovered the victim’s phone with its SIM card removed and found 20 euros in the suspect’s possession.
the suspect and investigation
The camouflaged evidence and the victim’s belongings were recovered as officers continued their search. The victim’s handbag, containing documents and house keys, was found beneath a vehicle, along with other personal items. The injured woman later reported having had 80 euros in her purse, with only 20 euros remaining at the time of arrest.
The detainee was transferred to the police station for processing. After formalities on Wednesday, the individual was presented before the Alicante court on duty and was remanded in prison at the Prosecutor’s request. Close sources indicated concerns about a confirmed drug addiction and the need for treatment for the arrestee.
The hospital treated the injured woman, who was able to return home in Alicante. The case continues to be reviewed by authorities as they gather further details to understand the full scope of the incident.