The National Police, in collaboration with local authorities, pursued a difficult investigation into an assault that targeted a woman in Valencia last November. The case began with the report of a violent act carried out inside a private residence. The assailant forced his way into the home, restrained the victim, and subjected her to violence while demanding personal financial information. Evidence collected during the incident indicated that the intruder accessed the victim’s bank details by coercing her to reveal a PIN and by taking her bank card and mobile phone. It was later confirmed that a withdrawal of 330 euros occurred from the victim’s account after the assault.
During the attack, the assailant restrained the victim and tied her wrists to the headboard, and there are indications that the force used may have been repeated. The crime took place without the victim being able to call for help or escape immediately, leaving her in a vulnerable and dangerous situation for an extended period. Finally, the perpetrator left the scene, preventing any immediate means of seeking assistance for the victim.
Following the escape, the woman found a way to untie herself and sought help at a local police station in Valencia. She handed over the weapon used to threaten her, which aided investigators in linking the crime to a broader pattern of violence and coercion faced by the victim. The authorities coordinated closely with the victim’s account to establish a clear sequence of events and to secure potential evidence from the scene.
The Family and Women’s Attention Unit, UFAM, of the Valencian Judicial Police Provincial Brigade, took charge of the formal investigation. Through careful fieldwork, interviews, and forensic analysis, investigators pieced together the timeline and the circumstances surrounding the assault. Their efforts underscored the importance of a victim-centered approach and rigorous procedural steps in handling sensitive cases of this nature.
As the inquiry progressed, investigators noted a potential link to individuals who had left Spain for Belgium. The case highlighted the cross-border dimension of serious crimes and the need for international cooperation in tracking suspects who might be outside the country. Belgian authorities participated in the collaboration, sharing information and coordinating efforts to identify and locate the suspect. The investigation in Valencia benefited from this international partnership, enabling a more comprehensive evidentiary collection and verification process.
Through coordinated actions, Belgian police were able to identify the suspect as the person responsible for sexual assault by penetration, illegal detention, and violent robbery. Once identified, authorities prepared to execute an international arrest request, with plans to return the suspect to Spain for trial. The case demonstrates how cross-border cooperation can help close gaps in pursuit and accountability when crimes involve multiple jurisdictions. The involved agencies continue to monitor the situation to ensure a timely and compliant return of the suspect to face legal proceedings.
Officials underscored the resilience shown by the victim and reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement to pursue suspects across borders when necessary. The cooperation between Valencia’s UFAM and international partners illustrates a shared dedication to safeguarding victims and enforcing the law, regardless of where perpetrators may attempt to hide. The ongoing process aims to deliver justice while maintaining the safety and well-being of those affected by violence and exploitation.
While authorities work toward completing the formal procedures for the return order, the public can expect continued updates as the case advances. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges victims face and the crucial role of timely, coordinated action by police, prosecutors, and international partners in addressing violent crimes with a cross-border footprint.