Five women were arrested in Madrid over a spate of sophisticated home robberies carried out by groups posing as elderly residents. The suspects targeted affluent neighborhoods in Madrid and nearby towns, gaining entry by sliding their way into homes and then using tools to breach doors. The arrests took place within a special operation focused on stopping forced robberies in inhabited properties, according to a Madrid Police High Headquarters press release issued on a recent Wednesday.
The probe began last March after investigators received reports of multiple break-ins at residences in the Chamartín, Salamanca, and Chamberí districts, as well as in Alcobendas and Majadahonda. Items stolen included jewelry, watches, cash, and handbags from luxury brands. While some intrusions involved the use of screwdrivers and other implements, investigators found that the doors were typically opened using bolts that had been manipulated to create an entry point.
During the incidents, officers noted that the perpetrators avoided alarming residents by ringing bells repeatedly during the day and instead moved with a calm, routine demeanor, exploiting the quiet periods of security personnel on site.
As the investigation progressed, authorities uncovered two separate cells composed of five women who traveled with colored wigs to disguise their appearance and hinder identification by the police. This disguise helped conceal their movements during the thefts.
Two of the suspects were caught in the act as they exited a residence, a result of the targeted operation designed to dismantle the organized group behind these burglaries. Officers recovered multiple stolen jewels and coins, along with wigs, bags, and door-opening tools that had been seized at the scene.
Involved in 11 robberies
Subsequent operations led to the arrest of three additional women who were found with valuables linked to various burglaries. With the five detainees, authorities attribute involvement in a total of eleven robberies, with the collective value of the stolen items estimated at around 1.3 million euros.
Judicial authorities decided to remand the suspects in custody as the case proceeds. Investigations remain active, as prosecutors consider the potential for further arrests linked to this organized criminal network.