A 26-year-old detainee with a history of aggressive thefts and violent robberies has been arrested again, this time in Alicante. The arrest followed another incident in Alicante’s core district. The individual operated nationwide, targeting vulnerable people, notably seniors and those with limited mobility. Jewelry thefts, often worth around 1,000 euros, were a common feature of the crimes, with some episodes involving sums near 5,000 euros. The case is part of a broader pattern of exploitation against the elderly, highlighting the persistent risk posed by street-level criminals across the country, as observed by law enforcement authorities. (National Police)
The Alicante Central Regional Police Station, under the Judicial Police Operations Group, initiated the investigation after a cluster of theft complaints emerged. The reports described a strikingly similar modus operandi and the same physical profile attributed to the suspect. By comparing the details across multiple complaints, investigators noted consistent elements in every account: the suspect approached victims with a calm, careful demeanor and targeted high-value gold jewelry. In several instances, the offender offered acts of affection or affection-like gestures to gain the victims’ trust before proceeding with the theft. (National Police)
Through meticulous cross-checking of the complaints, authorities were able to pinpoint the alleged perpetrator and verify that the individual had already been detained on multiple occasions in Alicante over the preceding months. The pattern suggested a well-practiced approach that allowed the suspect to operate across national lines, carrying out thefts under a predictable and repeatable sequence. The tactic named by investigators as the loving hug involved approaching older people, using a moment of physical closeness to seize jewelry and flee swiftly. (National Police)
In many cases, the thief favored older adults and adjusted his or her accent to avoid identification. The rapid execution of the thefts minimized opportunities for victims to resist or call for help. The suspect’s movements and methods pointed to a calculated strategy designed to maximize gains while reducing the chance of capture. The individual was eventually brought into custody and remained in the system for processing in Alicante’s court infrastructure. (National Police)
The case has drawn attention to the need for heightened vigilance among seniors and those who assist them, particularly in everyday social settings where trust can be leveraged by criminals. The investigation underscored how a blend of social engineering and quick, decisive action by the offender allowed for the swift completion of each theft, often before witnesses could intervene. The authorities emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious behavior and maintaining a heightened awareness of high-value jewelry and potential ploys used to gain access to valuables. (National Police)
To prevent such crimes, the National Police highlights a broad security framework that includes outreach efforts with associations and centers for the elderly. The Great Security Plan at the national level coordinates with various branches of Citizen Participation across Spain, aiming to reduce vulnerability among elderly populations and improve community resilience against thefts and similar offenses. As part of these preventive activities, the police regularly organize talks, safety days, and collaborative events designed to educate older adults and caregivers about recognizing grooming tactics and avoiding risky situations. These preventive days are organized through official channels and partner organizations, with information circulated through public safety networks. (National Police)
Great Security Plan
Comprehensive prevention efforts extend beyond courtroom responses. The plan emphasizes proactive engagement with local communities, including neighborhood associations, senior centers, and care facilities. These initiatives focus on practical steps such as verifying the identity of visitors, avoiding open displays of high-value items, and creating trusted routines for assistance that help deter predatory behavior. The collaboration between police, civil society, and the general public strengthens the overall security landscape, creating layers of protection for potentially vulnerable residents. (National Police)