This report describes a police action by the Civil Guard against two alleged members of a group known locally as the “cogoteros,” a trio accused of targeting elderly people for robbery and extortion. The operation was part of ongoing prevention and security measures carried out by the Civil Guard under the General Staff. Several of the suspects already faced legal requests from other courts in Spain for similar crimes. The operation occurred near a bank, where authorities intercepted the group after they had previously stolen 4,000 euros from an older man in May.
On July 6, agents from the town’s Civil Guard post detained two Colombian men, aged 29 and 53, near a bank in Calp. The arrest followed careful monitoring and immediate action after officers observed suspicious behavior by three individuals in the vicinity of the bank.
During the encounter, one suspect left the bank and signaled to the others. In the agents’ presence, another tried to flee but was quickly apprehended.
Once the identities were established, it was revealed that in May the same location and the same victims were involved in a theft amounting to 4,000 euros, exploiting the distraction of an elderly man. Additional warrants had been issued by Turkish courts for the two detained individuals for theft and extortion offenses. The incidents linked to Almansa (Albacete), Gandía (Valencia), and Calahorra (La Rioja) illustrate a pattern of targeting older adults who were seen as vulnerable. A third suspect was released because there was no pending charge or active investigation against him.
Effects of committing robbery
During detention, authorities recovered several items used to carry out robberies. These included a homemade device capable of puncturing tires, tools for breaking car windows, communications devices, and disguises intended to help criminals avoid recognition. Approximately 400 euros in cash was also found among the seized belongings.
The two detainees were arrested in connection with the seized items, and orders from the Court of Sentry (referenced as a precautionary measure) mandated their release on bail, as reported by local authorities.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim of such criminals
The group, often called “cogoteros” in local parlance, operates in organized, mobile cells typically composed of three or more individuals. They act in a coordinated manner to rob or burgle by exploiting the distraction or vulnerability of victims, sometimes offering a gesture of help to draw attention away from their true intent.
To reduce the risk of this type of robbery, the Civil Guard emphasizes that these criminals frequently target elderly or vulnerable people who are alone when they make purchases or withdraw money. Practical precautions include:
– Whenever possible, have a companion accompany you.
– Be aware of prying eyes when withdrawing cash, and alert a store employee or call the Civil Guard if you notice someone watching. If someone approaches you with a reason to help right after you have accessed your funds, stay alert—distractions are a common tactic to exploit carelessness.
– Guard personal belongings at all times and avoid leaving valuables unattended on a table.
– Ensure vehicles are locked before leaving them unattended.
– If someone offers to assist after a tire problem, switch off the vehicle and assess the situation before allowing help.